Autonomous regional government of Iraq's Kurdistan Region
The Iraqi Shia militia Asaib Ahl al-Haq has announced the withdrawal of its members and weapons from the PMF, placing them under state control. The move follows a pattern of militias seeking legitimacy within Baghdad's institutions, reshaping Iraq's political landscape as the party expands its formal influence.
A 19-year-old Norwegian footballer, Johannes Kongsnes Natland, has been found guilty of conspiracy to murder in London after being recruited by the Foxtrot Network, a Swedish crime group with links to the Iranian regime. He travelled to the UK with two guns and ammunition and was arrested in Huddersfield last year. Sanctions against Foxtrot Network remain in place.
Kurdistan Regional Government president Barzani has met Syria's leadership in Damascus to discuss strengthening cooperation and the integration of the SDF into state institutions, with language and cultural rights on the agenda amid ongoing negotiations.