Iraq
Kuwait, Lebanon, Syria leading options for Abraham Accords expansion, CSA report assesses
CSA released its “Abraham Accords Expansion Opportunities: Middle East Analysis” report on October 8, assessing nine Muslim-majority countries without formal diplomatic relations with Israel.
Islamic regime attacks against Kurdish forces affect both Kurds in Iran, Iraq as tensions rise
Trump envoy kept financial ties to firm behind $15 billion Hormuz-bypass oil pipeline plan
Middle East economy to shrink 2.1% in 2026, Gulf economies by 4.3%, World Bank forecasts
US-led coalition exit shifts more counter-ISIS burden to Iraq and Syria - analysis
The end of Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq leaves local forces carrying more of the operational burden while Washington retains a regional intelligence and support role.
Islamic State claims responsibility for attack that killed policeman near Iraq's Kirkuk
Despite the defeat of the Islamic State’s self-declared caliphate nearly a decade ago, the group retains sleeper cells in Iraq, Iraqi security officials told Reuters ahead of the US withdrawal.
Seeking to prevent crisis, Iraq condemns desecration of US flag by pro-Iranian militias - analysis
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi made it clear he had given orders to arrest the perpetrators who drove over a US flag.
Iran-backed militias in Iraq determined to retain arms after US withdrawal - interview
With the US military's complete withdrawal from Iraq, Baghdad projects a celebratory sense of “sovereignty” despite Iranian-backed militias retaining power there.
Iran-backed militias trample US flag, exposing Iraq’s sovereignty problem - analysis
The trampling of the American flag by the militias is not new. However, the US will now focus on its activities after leaving Iraq. Iraq is talking about “sovereignty.”
Despite US sanctions on Iranian flights, up to forty a day may still fly to Iraq’s Najaf - analysis
Iraq has become central to Iran's strategic chessboard in the region as Tehran seeks to expand its influence while navigating increasing US sanctions.
Day one for the new Iraq after US Forces leave - analysis
The US's 23-year presence in Iraq ended as both sides offer their characterization of the conflict and look to the future.
Joy mixed with fear as US forces leave Iraq amid potential security vacuum
Some Iraqi security officials say the US pullout also risks giving new life to ISIS fighters, who, despite the defeat of their self-proclaimed caliphate nearly a decade ago, retain a cell network.
As US ends operations in Iraq, Baghdad celebrates its withdrawal and renewed sovereignty - analysis
Baghdad asked the US to return. Now, in a kind of “no good deed goes unpunished” manner, Iraq is celebrating the US leaving after asking the US for help.
As US leaves Iraq, Baghdad sees withdrawal as 'symbol of sovereignty' - analysis
Iraq’s depiction of the US withdrawal as leading to “sovereignty” shows how Baghdad has not valued the US role in fighting ISIS and maintaining order in the country.
