Exclusive 100 non-Syrian Kurds return to PKK’s Qandil stronghold under SDF-Damascus deal The transfer of non-Syrian PKK fighters to Iraq’s Qandil Mountains follows a US-brokered SDF-Damascus deal aimed at easing tensions and preserving Kurdish forces under national army oversight. By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
Iraq’s Maliki rejects Trump criticism, vows to stay in PM race Maliki refused to withdraw from the race, despite mounting pressure from the US, and expressed a desire for good relations with Iraq’s neighbors and Washington. Iraq
How US-India trade deal could impact Mideast energy, trade routes The United States and India struck a trade agreement on Monday that eases months of tension between the two countries and could influence Gulf oil flows and economic integration. Saudi Arabia
Iraq's Shiite bloc holds talks with Kurds as deadlock on president, PM persists The Shiite-led Coordination Framework reiterated its support for former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on Saturday, despite vocal criticism by US President Donald Trump of the former premier. Iraq
Analysis After Trump’s rebuke, can Maliki rebound in Iraq, or does Sudani become favorite? By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Babil massacre increases demand to reform Iraqi security forces Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi refers to the "heartbreaking massacre" and reinforces his commitment to security reform after 20 family members are killed based on specious charges. Iraq
Iraq records first omicron cases Five cases were confirmed in Dohuk province and an unknown number of infections were recorded among foreign diplomats in Baghdad. Iraq
Attacks on US in Iraq meant to send ‘harsh’ message — without spilling blood On the anniversary of the death of former IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani and with the resumption of the nuclear talks in Vienna, Iran stakes out a hard line. Iraq
The Takeaway: Iraq’s elections: What comes next? Updates from our correspondents in Israel, Palestine, Turkey, Egypt and New York; Multimedia reporting on Kurds, Tel Aviv, Egypt and Sharjah! Iraq
US troops in Syria, Iraq targeted with renewed rocket and drone attacks Iran-backed militias are not buying the Pentagon's attempt to rebrand the coalition's defeat-ISIS mission. Iraq
Iran, Iraq draw up plans for railway connection from Basra to Shalamcheh Iran and Iraq transportation ministries signed a document setting a roadmap for implementation of Basra-Shalamcheh railway connection, which should boost economic activity for both countries. Iraq
US coalition in Iraq halts second drone attack in two days Coalition forces in Syria also hit back in response to rocket fire near al-Omar oilfield. Iraq
Iran’s support for Taliban pays off, but border remains problematic Exports from Iran to Afghanistan are increasing as border clashes and the smuggling of both people and drugs fosters instability. Iraq
Drones shot down in Baghdad on Soleimani death anniversary The thwarted attack came on the second anniversary of the killing of Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani. Iraq
Combat mission of international coalition in Iraq has ended The Iraqi government has announcement the end of the international forces’ mission in the country, renewing controversy over the concept of resistance and the legitimacy of its weapons in a law-abiding democratic state. Iraq
Middle East elections had consequences in 2021 Elections in Israel, Iran and Iraq shook up status quo; Syria’s presidential contest a blow to the UN process; Libya and Palestine took a pass on elections, with consequences as well. News Brief
Child rape and security forces’ behavior spark outcry in Iraq Violent crimes perpetrated against Iraqi women and girls has led to outrage and renewed calls for women to have greater representation and decision-making opportunities in the country, as all-male government formation talks continue. Iraq