Iraqi candidates exchange government jobs for votes

Despite the Iraqi people’s aspirations for a democratic state, many politicians hand out government jobs during election season to ensure votes.

Iraq

Iraqi army must combat sectarianism

During the ongoing clashes in Anbar, a number of soldiers have engaged in actions that promote ethnic and sectarian tensions, highlighting the need for the government to enact laws to combat such practices.

Iraq

Is ISIS planning for new Fallujahs?

In recent weeks, the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has changed its tactics in Iraq, focusing on expanding its scope of influence.

Iraq

Najaf seminaries maintain traditional teaching methods

Unlike some religious schools in Iran and Lebanon, the seminaries in Najaf have maintained traditional teaching methods that allow students flexibility in choosing their course of study.

Iraq

Iraqi campaign failing in struggle against illiteracy

The Iraqi government and UNESCO launched an ambitious campaign to fight illiteracy in the country, but it has not been fully implemented.

Iraq

What is Sistani's position on the Iraqi elections?

Iraq’s top Shiite religious authority is not endorsing any political party in the upcoming elections and urges voters not to vote for corruption and past failure.

Iraq

Economic chaos at Iraq's Anbar border crossings

The security situation in Iraq's Anbar province has pushed security forces to close the border crossings on several occasions, impeding the movement of trucks transporting goods into the country and inflicting losses on traders.

Iraq

Cab drivers in Baghdad driving under the influence

In Baghdad, some taxi drivers drink alcohol while driving at night, with security officers often turning a blind eye.

Iraq

Still banned from Turkey

For the second time since 2007, Turkey denied an Al-Monitor contributor entry because of his work as a journalist on Kurdish issues.

Iraq

Bitter Maliki-Nujaifi exchanges strain political system

With Iraqi parliamentary elections set to take place in less than two months, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's relationships with both Council of Representatives Speaker Osama al-Nujaifi and Kurdistan Region President Massoud Barzani are going from bad to worse.

Iraq

GCC rift another blow to Erdogan’s Mideast policies

Turkey is increasingly isolated in the region, more so as Qatar is on the outs with other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Saudi Arabia

Iraqi Shiite clerics maintain humility, influence

The Shiite clerics of Najaf have always provided a spiritual reference to their followers, while at the same time playing an important role on various levels.

Iraq