IRAQ: Iraq has partnered with Google and its AI platform Google Gemini as part of efforts to modernize Iraqi football ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking Iraq’s first appearance in the tournament in 40 years. The initiative, led by football federation chairman Adnan Dirjal, aims to improve the national team’s global image and [...]
IRAQ: A severe dust storm caused by a “Khamsin” depression led to 1,133 cases of suffocation across Iraq on May 4, 2026. Most cases were mild to moderate, and no fatalities were reported. Al-Muthanna was the hardest hit with 576 cases, followed by Najaf (300) and Baghdad (200). Authorities urged residents to stay indoors and [...]
IRAQ: The dominant parliamentary bloc in Iraq, known as the Coordination Framework, has nominated Ali al-Zaidi as the country’s next prime minister. This decision followed weeks of internal negotiations to find a compromise candidate. Nizar Amidi officially tasked al-Zaidi with forming a government, though parliamentary approval is still uncertain as 167 votes are required. The [...]
IRAQ: Iraq is increasingly vulnerable as conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran intensifies. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have launched attacks on US targets, prompting retaliatory strikes within Iraqi territory and raising fears that the country could become a proxy battleground. At the same time, wider regional tensions—such as disruptions in the Strait of [...]
Explosions and drone activity struck Baghdad, including a fire at the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center. Iraqi air defenses intercepted multiple drones, while rockets and missiles landed in different parts of the city, injuring civilians and damaging infrastructure. The United States Embassy in Baghdad activated its defense systems in response to the attacks. The incidents are [...]
American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been kidnapped in Baghdad by a suspected Iranian-backed militia linked to Kataib Hezbollah. The incident comes amid rising regional tensions following conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. US officials are working with Iraqi authorities to secure her release, and at least one suspect has been arrested. Kittleson, known [...]
Iraqi Christians are scaling back Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter celebrations due to security concerns linked to ongoing regional conflict. Church leaders, including the Syriac Catholic Archdiocese of Mosul and the Chaldean Archdiocese of Erbil, have urged the faithful to focus on prayer, reflection, and solidarity with those affected by war. Public processions and [...]
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Miqdad al-Khafaji confirmed that recent U.S.-Israeli airstrikes targeted Iraqi security sites, including the Popular Mobilization Forces and Federal Police, killing 19 personnel and injuring dozens. He stated there were no confirmed U.S. ground troop landings but accused the attacks of violating Iraq’s sovereignty. In response, Parliament is preparing a draft law to cancel the [...]
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt announced its willingness to support Iraq and Kuwait in resolving their maritime border dispute through dialogue and in accordance with international law. Cairo emphasized its commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, urging both nations to respect existing maritime boundary agreements. Tensions [...]