US maintains mystery about long-term intentions in Syria

Remember that "border force" the US said it was, and then wasn't, forming in Syria? Apparently, it's already there.

Iraq

Iraqi Sunni coalition falls apart as power struggle ensues

As a united Sunni coalition has failed, Iraq's Sunni political forces have divided into several alliances, each hoping to win as many parliamentary seats as possible and occupy the position of "Sunni leadership" for the next four years.

Iraq

Military audit confirms US tanks ended up with Iran-backed militias

The US effort to assess Iraq’s military capabilities is plagued by weak oversight, an inspector general report found.

Iraq

Iraqi Kurds maneuver to get closer to Iran

Following the rupture caused by the Sept. 25 independence referendum, the Kurdistan Regional Government and Iran are moving to bolster ties.

Iraq

US troop drawdown seen as boosting Iraq’s Abadi

The US decision to withdraw troops from Iraq could help the Iraqi prime minister’s re-election campaign.

Iraq

Are Iraqi Mandaeans better off in Jordan?

Because of discrimination, Iraq’s Mandaeans practice their religion in secrecy in Jordan.

Iraq

Saudis see opportunities in helping to rebuild Iraq

Riyadh's role in restoring Iraq's war-torn areas will play up Saudi Arabia's presence there and, the Saudis hope, help stop the spread of Iran's influence.

Saudi Arabia

Activists in Iraq try new tack: Effect change by not voting

Iraqi political parties are trying to mobilize voters as calls for an election boycott gain steam.

Iraq

Culture Alert: Art speaks to power in February

February exhibitions in the Middle East offer satirical and fantastic looks at politics and society, clearly demonstrating that the fighting spirit in the arts is far from being defeated by the powers that be.

Egypt

Iraq takes custody of officials wanted in corruption probes

Iraq is taking steps to recover funds and arrest those accused of corruption by coordinating actions with foreign countries and Interpol.

Iraq

Iraqi journalists face attacks by politicians' bodyguards

As attacks on journalists are on the rise in Iraq, part of the problem lies with politicians' bodyguards who are also assaulting journalists.

Iraq

Baghdad objects to European plans to forcibly repatriate Iraqis

Many European countries are trying to send Iraqi refugees whose asylum cases have been rejected back to Iraq, while Baghdad refuses to cooperate with the forcible return of its citizens.

Iraq