Obama prepared to work with Putin to broker Syria transition

Despite widespread condemnation of Russian airstrikes in Syria, signs of progress on UN-brokered talks on a political transition; Iran’s ties with Saudi Arabia and Egypt; the trend toward counterterrorism; United States should not treat Iraq as a "weak partner."

Saudi Arabia

Should European states transport refugees themselves?

Refugees and migrants are paying thousands of dollars to smugglers to reach Europe, so why don't European governments cut into the trade and provide the migrants safe transportation?

Iraq

US-Iraqi relations need a reset

US-Iraqi relations have had their ups and downs since the 2003 invasion and withdrawal of US troops in 2011, and currently require a reassessment to establish a solid partnership between the two parties.

Iraq

Death no deterrent for Iraqi Kurds wanting better life in Europe

Peshmerga and other residents of Iraqi Kurdistan are fleeing the region because of frustrations with the government, corruption and the declining standard of living.

Iraq

Even clerics are joining Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units

The phenomenon of clerics joining Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units to fight the Islamic State, while deemed beneficial by many, remains controversial.

Iraq

Lenders rip off small Iraqi businesses

Moneylenders are taking advantage of small business owners looking to expand their enterprises in Iraq, where support from banks is almost nonexistent.

Iraq

Battling from their refugee tents: Meet the Kurdish peshmergas fighting to take back their homes

Peshmerga living in the Baharka refugee camp in northern Iraq are fighting to retake their homes, insisting they will not stop until they succeed.

Iraq

Will US, Russia find common ground in Syria?

A common enemy, the Islamic State, should be the first step in an expanded international coalition; does Iraqi Kurdistan face the prospect of "administrative breakup"?

Iraq

Is Iraqi Kurdistan splitting apart ... again?

Political and economic tensions are chipping away at the autonomy, stability and unity of Iraqi Kurdistan as diverse local populations are calling for political reforms and an end to corruption.

Iraq

Iraq’s ancient Kish City lies buried in sand

Iraq’s Kish City has managed to overcome many natural disasters and neglect on the part of its residents and the government, but it has now been turned into a desolate site covered in sand.

Iraq

Iraq's Kakai minority joins fight against Islamic State

Some in Iraq’s Kakai minority group have claimed to be Muslim to avoid persecution, while others are working to form a militia to protect themselves.

Iraq

Iraq tries to help shake stigma of orphans

The Iraqi government and society must do more to end "honor killings" of women who give birth out of wedlock and to provide care and compassion for the children left behind.

Iraq