Does Baghdadi’s death herald the end of IS?

The Islamic State is unlikely to disintegrate after losing its leader as the factors that have driven the worldwide membership and activities of the group remain in place.

Iraq

As PMU gets involved in Iraqi protests, rumors about military coup spread

PMU leaders who have been silent about the protests have started to get involved, as rumors are spreading in the capital about a possible military coup in the country.

Iraq

Iran not letting Iraq go without a fight

Iraqi protesters have had enough of Iran’s heavy hand, but don’t expect the Iranians to pack up and go home.

Iraq

Amid rising protests, PMU prevents confrontation with US

The Popular Mobilization Units try to distance themselves from the current confrontation between Iran and US in order to preserve PMU interests in Iraq.

Iraq

Iraqi president pledges early elections while protesters call for more radical solutions

After a meeting with heads of parliamentary blocs and other top officials, Iraqi President Barham Salih announces a reform plan in response to protester demands.

Iraq

Congress sounds alarm on weaponization of Syrian aid

The US Congress is warning that Turkey and Russia could join the Syrian government in blocking humanitarian aid for the war-torn country even as lawmakers seek to redirect it from regime-held territory.

Iraq

Tehran decries foreign influence in Iraq protests

Though they acknowledge the legitimate demands of Iraqi protesters, Iranian officials are focusing on the role of foreign countries they accuse of using the protests to create chaos and instability.

Iraq

As Syria constitution talks kick off, is Kurdish administration 'finished'?

As representatives from Syria's government, opposition and civil society meet in Geneva to draft a new constitution for the war-torn country, Al-Monitor spoke with French academic Fabrice Balanche on prospects for the talks.

Iraq

Clock ticks down for Iraqi PM as protests rock the country

The blocs that put Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi in office seem to be sacrificing him to save their political interests.

Iraq

Dangers persist as Iraqi border crossing opens and IDPs return

Recent geopolitical shifts in eastern Syria will affect western Anbar, given the porous Iraqi-Syrian border, the recently reopened Qaim-Abu Kamal crossing and scores of returning families.

Iraq

Why is Russian military skeptical about US claim of Baghdadi's killing?

The Russian military's incredulity about the US raid that killed Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi has some basis in practical reasons that go beyond just "great power jealousy."

Iraq

Intel: What’s fueling Iraqi anger at the government

Iraqi protesters have returned to the street in force over the past five days for the second time since early October.

Iraq