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Since late January, Syria has begun transferring around 9,000 ISIS detainees from Kurdish-controlled detention centers to Iraqi custody amid ongoing regional instability. The move follows Syrian government advances into northeast Syria, capturing key prisons and camps, and raises concerns over detainee escapes and regional security threats.
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A legal battle has emerged over a Jersey estate linked to alleged financial fraud involving a trust company, with accusations of misappropriation, fake loans, and offshore money laundering. The case highlights complex international financial misconduct and potential bank liability, with new court filings revealing decades of alleged deception.
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The U.S. has begun transferring Islamic State detainees to Iraq following the collapse of Kurdish-led forces in northeast Syria. So far, fewer than 500 of the expected 7,000 fighters have been moved, amid Western concerns over repatriation and legal challenges. Iraq is wary of taking full custody due to capacity and political issues.
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As of February 13, 2026, Iraq has received over 5,000 Islamic State (IS) detainees transferred from Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) prisons in northeast Syria. The transfers, coordinated by the US-led coalition, aim to prevent IS prisoners from escaping amid Syrian government advances. Iraq is investigating and prosecuting detainees under its laws, while humanitarian concerns persist in camps holding IS families.
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Yanar Mohammed, a prominent Iraqi women's rights activist, was shot outside her Baghdad home and died from her injuries. Her work included establishing shelters for women facing violence and fighting against gender-based abuse. Her death highlights ongoing threats against activists in Iraq.
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Iraq's Shia alliance, the Coordination Framework, reaffirmed support for Nouri al-Maliki as prime minister despite US warnings that aid will be withdrawn if he is elected. The US opposes Maliki's return due to his Iran links, while Iraqi factions emphasize sovereignty and internal decision-making. The political process faces delays amid US-Iran tensions.
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Iraq introduced new tariffs on January 1 to reduce debt and diversify revenue, but traders and shopkeepers oppose them, citing increased costs, delays, and corruption. Protests and legal challenges have emerged, with authorities claiming revenue gains and efforts to unify border procedures.
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Since January 21, US forces have transferred over 5,700 suspected ISIS fighters from Syria to Iraq at Baghdad's request. The move aims to facilitate trials and prevent ISIS resurgence amid recent Syrian government offensives and regional instability. Syria reports control of al-Tanf base after US handover, while Iraqi authorities prepare for judicial proceedings.
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The US military has carried out 10 air strikes against ISIS targets in Syria between February 3 and 12, hitting infrastructure and weapons sites. Over 50 ISIS members have been killed or captured since December 13, and the US has transferred more than 5,700 detainees from Syria to Iraq amid ongoing military operations.
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Following the US-Israeli strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on March 1, 2026, violent protests erupted across Pakistan, especially in Karachi, Skardu, and Islamabad. At least 10 people died in Karachi alone as protesters clashed with security forces near US diplomatic missions. Demonstrations also spread to Iraq, with protests outside the US embassy in Baghdad.
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As of March 10, 2026, US military strikes against Iran have sparked widespread public concern. Polls show about half of Americans oppose the intervention, doubting Iran posed an imminent threat. Many fear rising oil prices and prolonged conflict. Casualties among US troops have been reported, and President Trump's approval rating has declined amid economic and security worries.
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A missile struck the US Embassy in Baghdad's Green Zone, damaging part of its air defense system. No casualties reported. Iran-aligned groups have claimed or been linked to recent attacks amid ongoing regional conflict escalation. The attack follows recent strikes on Iran-backed groups and US bases in Iraq.
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Recent airstrikes in Baghdad and Kirkuk have targeted Iran-backed militia sites, killing or injuring fighters and possibly senior leaders. The strikes mark a shift toward targeted assassinations amid ongoing regional conflict, with Iraq's government condemning the attacks as violations of humanitarian norms.
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On March 13-14, 2026, US forces bombed military targets on Iran's Kharg Island, a key oil export hub. President Trump warned oil infrastructure would be spared for now but threatened destruction if Iran disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran vowed retaliation against US-linked oil facilities. The US is deploying 2,500 Marines and warships to the Gulf amid escalating conflict.
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Multiple attacks targeted the US embassy in Baghdad on Saturday, following strikes that killed Iran-backed militia members. The embassy was hit by a drone or missile, with smoke rising from the Green Zone. The incident marks the second attack since the start of the recent Middle East conflict.