Political and economic turmoil point to a protracted displacement crisis that will get worse before it gets better. As the Iraqi security forces began their assault on ISIS-controlled Fallujah, the city's remaining inhabitants were advised to flee. They will join the millions of Iraqis who have been displaced by conflict, adding to a crisis that merits much more attention th
Read MoreOne is no longer in the job, the other is almost out. Yet a rule that forces locals to hang portraits of senior politicians in their offices remains in force. Locals debate whether that is a good thing for democracy. A Hanging Offence: Iraqi Kurdistan’s Political History, As Told In Portraits Honar Hama Rasheed One is no longer in the job, the other is almost out.
Read MoreThis incisive article first published by GR in October 2014 sheds light on the unfolding war in Syria and the confrontation between Russia and the US. The details are emerging of a new secret and quite stupid Saudi-US deal on Syria and the so-called ISIS. It involves oil and gas control of the entire region and the weakening of Russia and Iran by Saudi Arabian flooding the w
Read MoreKey Takeaway: Iraq's Federal Court will issue an important ruling on May 25 that could have a major impact on the political crisis. The issues at stake are the legitimacy of Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi's ministerial appointments and the speakership of the Council of Representatives. Former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is a driver of the political party that has raised
Read MoreContinued bombings could bring a devastating flood of sectarian attacks to Baghdad and delay the battle for Mosul, so the coalition should help Iraqis address the capital's longstanding vulnerability. More than 100 people were killed on Wednesday in three separate attacks in Baghdad, with more than 165 wounded. The most devastating bombing, in Sadr City's Urayba Market
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