Iraq in the press: US pressure on PM-designate Zaidi as factional wrangling persists amid Iran-linked militias and audit of oil diversions. Zaidi bio: Iraqi businessman tapped to form government.
As of late March 2026, Iranian Kurdish groups based in Iraq remain cautious about launching a ground offensive into Iran despite ongoing U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian Kurdistan. These Kurdish factions seek political autonomy and regime change in Iran but demand U.S. guarantees such as a no-fly zone. Displaced Iranian Kurds in Iraq live with limited rights, hoping for safe return if Iran's government changes.
As of April 10, 2026, Iraq has emerged as a critical battleground in the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Iranian-backed militias and US forces have exchanged drone and airstrikes, killing hundreds including civilians, commanders, and UN peacekeepers. Iraq has authorized Iran-aligned Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to defend themselves and demands stronger government action to contain escalating violence.
Joint Arab condemnation of cross-border attacks exposes Baghdad's failure to control armed proxies on its soil.
All three border crossings between Iraq and Syria have reopened, including al-Rabia/Yarubiyah, after nearly 13 years. The reopening aims to boost trade, facilitate oil exports, and support regional development projects amid ongoing regional shifts and economic needs.
The UK faces potential medicine shortages within weeks due to disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East. Experts warn that supply shocks, rising costs, and logistical delays threaten access to essential medicines, with vulnerable populations at risk. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
As of early April 2026, the US has deployed nearly 7,000 additional troops, including the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine Expeditionary Units, to the Middle East. The Pentagon is preparing options for limited ground raids targeting strategic Iranian sites such as Kharg Island and areas near the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has not authorized these operations. Iran warns of fierce resistance and retaliation.
On March 23-24, 2026, US President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause on planned strikes against Iran's energy infrastructure, citing "very good and productive" talks with Iranian officials. Trump named envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as negotiators. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf denied any negotiations, calling US claims "fake news." The US-Iran conflict continues with Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
On April 1, 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated four-time World Cup champions Italy in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, ending Italy's streak of World Cup appearances and securing Bosnia's place in the 2026 tournament. Italy's coach Gennaro Gattuso resigned following the loss. The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams across North America, with Bosnia placed in Group B.
Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz completely closed following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. This has caused a sharp drop in shipping traffic, a surge in oil prices to $111 a barrel, and energy shortages in countries like the Philippines. Alternative routes are being explored, but the impact on global markets is immediate and severe.
Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis have launched missile attacks and threaten to escalate their involvement in regional conflicts, including potential actions against shipping lanes and Israel. The US and Israel are responding with military preparations amid ongoing regional tensions.
American universities in Iraq, Lebanon, and Iran face threats of retaliation from Iran's IRGC following US-Israeli strikes on Iranian universities. Several institutions have moved to online classes for safety, as regional tensions escalate and warnings of potential attacks increase.
Mojtaba Khamenei, named Iran’s leader after his father’s death, has not appeared publicly since the airstrike that killed his father. Reports suggest he is recovering from injuries, but his condition remains uncertain, fueling speculation about his control over Iran’s government amid ongoing conflict.
Iran has imposed tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, violating international maritime law and escalating tensions in the region. Despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, Iran controls passage through the strait via a permissions-based system, charging up to $2 million per vessel. The closure has disrupted global oil and fertilizer supplies, with hundreds of ships stranded and trade volumes down over 90%.
The US is deploying nearly 70,000 troops to the Middle East, including ground forces, as tensions escalate with Iran. The buildup follows Israeli airstrikes on Iranian infrastructure and threats from Iran’s military. The US considers possible ground operations, including a raid on Iran’s nuclear sites, amid ongoing regional conflict.
Syria's president stated that the country will remain outside the ongoing regional conflict unless directly targeted. Despite deploying troops to borders with Lebanon and Iraq, Syria emphasizes its desire for peaceful relations and warns against becoming an arena of war, citing the current volatility and regional tensions.
The US embassy in Namibia emphasizes strict adherence to visa rules, warning travelers about overstays and document fraud. Meanwhile, the UK issues broad travel warnings for multiple countries, citing safety and legal concerns. Both stories highlight increased scrutiny on international travel and visa compliance as global mobility rises.
On March 31, 2026, US President Donald Trump criticized allies, especially the UK and France, for not supporting US-led strikes on Iran or reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Trump urged them to buy US oil and take control of the strait themselves, warning the US will no longer assist. The conflict has displaced over a million and disrupted global oil markets.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to significant economic and military costs. The US has spent over $22 billion on operations, while Arab economies face losses up to $194 billion, with millions at risk of increased poverty and unemployment. The situation remains highly volatile as the war continues.
As of April 2026, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is recruiting children as young as 12 for military and security duties, including manning checkpoints and patrols. Evidence shows children armed with rifles deployed in Tehran and other cities, violating international law. An 11-year-old boy was killed in a drone strike while on duty. Rights groups condemn the practice as a war crime.
Freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad on March 31 by Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah. Iraqi security forces have arrested one suspect and are pursuing others. The US State Department is involved, emphasizing her safety amid ongoing regional tensions.
Shelly Renee Kittleson, a US freelance journalist, was kidnapped from a Baghdad street. Iraqi authorities believe she is held in the city, with suspicions pointing to Iran-linked militia Kataib Hezbollah. She had been warned of threats before her abduction, and a suspect was arrested during the chase.
Iraq's national football team secured its first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1986 with a 2-1 victory over Bolivia. The win was celebrated across Iraq and by the Iraqi community in Australia, despite logistical challenges caused by regional conflicts. Coach Graham Arnold received widespread praise for leading the team through adversity.
President Trump announced the successful rescue of a US Air Force colonel after his F-15 was shot down over Iran. The operation involved deep-in-country special forces and was completed without US casualties. Iran reported destruction of US aircraft and casualties during the rescue. Tensions escalate as Trump threatens attacks on Iranian infrastructure.
On April 8, 2026, Iran agreed to temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ending a month-long conflict with the US that disrupted global oil supplies. Both sides claim victory as Pakistan brokers talks starting April 10 in Islamabad. The ceasefire excludes Israel's Lebanon operations, keeping regional tensions high. Global markets rallied on hopes of resumed energy flows.
President Trump has issued a deadline for Iran to make a deal, warning that the US will decimate Iran's civilian infrastructure if it is not met. Multiple sources report ongoing military actions and escalating tensions, with threats of widespread destruction and potential war crimes. The situation remains highly volatile as negotiations continue.
Kataib Hezbollah has released American journalist Shelly Kittleson after her kidnapping in Baghdad. The group cited Iraq’s prime minister’s efforts and her departure from the country as conditions for her release. She was freed in exchange for detained militia members, with a video of her staged confession released afterward.
The kidnapping of US journalist Shelly Kittleson in Baghdad has prompted foreign journalists to leave Iraq due to escalating security threats. Kittleson has been released after being held by Kataeb Hezbollah, which demanded she leave the country immediately. The security situation remains volatile.
Freelance US journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released after being kidnapped in Baghdad on March 31. Iraqi and US officials have been coordinating to secure her freedom; Kataib Hezbollah-linked militants are being blamed and a video showing Kittleson under duress has been circulated. Many foreign journalists have left Baghdad and embassies are urging departures.
Energy markets remain volatile as Iran continues attacks across the Arabian Peninsula, while Israel strikes Lebanon. The cease-fire allows ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, but full energy production recovery will take months due to damage and logistical challenges. Oil prices have surged, and countries like Egypt are implementing energy-saving measures.
Gulf states have summoned Iraqi diplomats over drone attacks launched from Iraq, despite ongoing US-Iran ceasefire. Saudi Arabia has restored oil pipeline capacity after attacks damaged energy facilities, which continue to impact global markets. The situation remains tense as regional conflicts persist.
Iraq has elected Nizar Amidi as president after a delayed vote, as the country continues to recover from the US-Israeli war on Iran. The election occurs during ongoing violence linked to the conflict, with Iraq facing political and economic instability. The prime minister's appointment remains unresolved.
Eight OPEC+ countries, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman, have agreed to increase oil production by 206,000 barrels per day starting in May 2026. The move follows a recent surge in oil prices caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted exports from key Gulf producers. Nigeria remains sidelined due to its inability to meet quotas. The decision reflects a cautious approach to market stability as disruptions continue.
Following failed peace talks in Islamabad, the US has begun a naval blockade targeting all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, effective Monday. Iran has condemned the move as piracy and threatened forceful retaliation. The blockade aims to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt its nuclear program, while global oil prices have surged amid rising tensions.
The US has begun enforcing a maritime blockade of Iranian ports and coastlines in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea, applying to vessels of all nations. This follows a ceasefire and ongoing tensions over Iran's navigation rights and US sanctions, disrupting global oil flows and increasing regional instability.
Since mid-April the U.S. has enforced a naval blockade on vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and Iran has been firing on and seizing ships; only a tiny fraction of pre-war traffic is transiting the Strait of Hormuz, dozens of tankers are stuck in the Gulf and recent U.S. actions have redirected or intercepted multiple Iranian-flagged vessels.
Iran has reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, causing renewed tensions with the US. Negotiations between Iran and the US are ongoing in Pakistan, with both sides reporting progress but remaining far apart on nuclear and maritime issues. The threat of conflict persists as the ceasefire nears expiration.
The United States has placed multimillion-dollar bounties on two Iran-aligned Iraqi militia leaders and paused security cooperation with Iraq as it pressures Baghdad to curb militias linked to Tehran amid ongoing regional tensions and a stalled government formation in Baghdad.
The EU is ready to collaborate with Gulf countries to develop new energy projects that bypass the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to reduce reliance on the waterway disrupted by regional conflicts. This move follows recent tensions and infrastructure damage, with the EU emphasizing energy security and regional stability today, Saturday, 25 April 2026.
Ali al-Zaidi has been named prime minister-designate by Iraq’s Coordination Framework after weeks of deadlock and US pressure. He is a businessman with no prior government office, and he will need to secure 167 votes in parliament within 30 days to form a government amid ongoing regional tensions and economic challenges.
Iraqi PM-designate Ali al-Zaidi is navigating joint internal bloc negotiations and US pressure as he moves to form a cabinet within 30 days, amid stakes tied to Iran-aligned factions and wider regional security concerns.
Drones have approached the Green Zone in Baghdad, triggering air-defence responses. The drone escaped after fire was opened; no immediate damage or casualties have been reported. The episode follows a string of recent attacks around the Green Zone as tensions over Iran-backed groups remain high.
Turkey has warned of Kurdish mobilisations in Iran and Iraq while PKK elements push for guarantees and a defined role for Abdullah Ocalan. Ankara maintains disarmament as a precondition for broader reforms, with stalled parliamentary momentum and ongoing regional tensions complicating prospects for renewed peace.
Dean DelleChiaie, 35, of Nashua, has been charged with interstate communication of a threat against the president after sending a personal-email message on April 21 stating he intended to neutralize/kill the president. The case follows earlier FAA computer searches and a suspension, with investigators noting his remorse during a February interview.
The United States has sanctioned Iraq’s deputy oil minister Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly and three leaders of Iran-aligned militias, accusing them of diverting Iraqi oil to benefit Iran. The move, tied to broader pressure on Iran and its Iraqi proxies, follows sanctions on related figures and comes as Tehran’s influence in Baghdad faces renewed scrutiny.
Multiple outlets have reported that Israel has established covert military sites in Iraq's western desert to support air operations against Iran. Reports say the installations have hosted special forces, logistics and search-and-rescue teams; Iraqi patrols investigating were struck in early March, killing one soldier and injuring others.
The UAE has emerged as a more direct participant in the Iran conflict, with reports that it carried out strikes against Iran, including an attack on the Lavan Island refinery. The ceasefire holds but regional tensions are rising as Gulf states respond to Iran's actions and to allied pressures from the US and Israel.
Curaçao has confirmed the return of Dick Advocaat as manager, three months after his resignation over his daughter’s health issue. He will coach Curaçao at the 2026 World Cup, becoming the tournament’s oldest manager, with Fred Rutten having stepped down and discussions with Advocaat ongoing.
Saudi air force has targeted Iran-linked militia sites in southern Iraq amid a broader Gulf escalation, with rockets reported from Kuwaiti territory and retaliatory strikes from Kuwait. Reuters cites Iraqi security officials and Western officials; the US has not commented. The events follow a pattern of Gulf-wide military responses tied to Iran-linked groups.
Iraq’s new prime minister has formed a partial cabinet with 14 ministers approved by parliament. Interior and defence posts remain unresolved as lawmakers grapple with coalition lines and external pressure from the U.S. and Iran amid ongoing regional tensions.
A drone has struck an electrical generator outside the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi after Emirati air defences have intercepted two other drones. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation has said the plant has remained safe, with no radiological release or injuries, while the IAEA is following the situation closely.