The IRGC's plan to win hearts and minds

Pro-regime culture portrays Qasem Soleimani as a brave, strong and mysterious commander as a key component in the campaign to recuperate trust in the IRGC among Iranians and to portray it as a formidable force in the region.

Iraq

The rise of Islamic State sleeper cells in Baghdad

After the recent attacks by the Islamic State around Baghdad, Iraqi security forces are struggling to track down IS cells in the Iraqi capital's outskirts.

Iraq

Why some Shiites are refusing to join fight against Islamic State

Shiite fighters will not participate in the upcoming Mosul battles, as they feel the sacrifices they have made so far are not appreciated by the Sunnis.

Iraq

Iraq prepares to amend its existing oil contracts

In light of the oil price slide, Iraq’s Oil Ministry is preparing to review contracts with foreign oil companies.

Iraq

Will faulty dam leave Mosul in deep water?

As maintenance work continues to ensure the structure stays strong, those residing near the Mosul dam live in fear of both flood waters and the terror group.

Iraq

Why is Iraq challenging human rights reports?

Despite accounts of major human rights violations in Iraq, the government continues to deny and criticize reports by international human rights organizations.

Iraq

Who's really taking Christian homes in Iraq?

Although the Popular Mobilization Units grouping has been accused of seizing the homes of Baghdad’s Christians, the organization is leading a campaign to recover the properties.

Iraq

After terrorist label, what is GCC's next move against Hezbollah?

Iranian officials and media have condemned the decision by the Gulf Cooperation Council to label the Lebanese group Hezbollah a terrorist organization and believe more anti-Hezbollah actions are on the way.

Saudi Arabia

House panel decries Islamic State genocide

The Foreign Affairs Committee also voted to label Syrian President Bashar al-Assad a war criminal.

Iraq

Abadi outgunned in fight to disarm tribes

The Iraqi state faces serious obstacles in its efforts to confiscate weapons from the heavily armed populace, which is much more concerned with tribal ties and customs than the rule of law.

Iraq

What is stopping the liberation of Mosul?

The liberation of Mosul from the Islamic State will be a complicated task for the Iraqi forces, as several players will be involved in the operation.

Iraq

Will Abadi put his money where his mouth is?

Iraq’s Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi’s contemplated Cabinet reshuffle to include technocrats and academics seems to be impossible in light of the sectarian political system in the country and the prevailing scepticism about this step among the political class.

Iraq