Central Iraqi city, spiritual and political hub
Iraq is resuming cash shipments and pursuing a deeper economic partnership with the United States. Zaidi travels to Washington to secure investment and discuss boosting oil output, while Baghdad seeks to bolster its economy after disruptions to revenue from regional conflict.
Airstrikes by US and Saudi forces hit PMF sites in Iraq after attacks on Saudi facilities, while Iran-backed groups and regional rivalries threaten Iraq’s new prime minister’s plan to disarm militias and anchor the state. The broader Strait of Hormuz dynamics and Yemen’s Houthis add layers to the conflict, risking wider regional instability.
More than 4.88 million pilgrims have entered Iraq for Arbaeen, with Iranian officials and pilgrims prominent on the Najaf–Karbala corridor. The event highlights Iraq’s delicate balancing act between regional powers as it grapples with economic stress and security concerns ahead of disarming militias.
Iranian civil aviation has suspended flights to several regional destinations amid U.S. sanctions pressure. Iraqi authorities are diverting potential flights to Najaf as Baghdad considers rerouting Tehran-bound services. Iran insists remaining international routes—including Istanbul—will operate as scheduled.
Iran has told Qatari mediators that they have discussed US ideas on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and expect a formal American reply within a day. Tehran is maintaining a blockade of commercial shipping and is demanding a seven-day Middle East ceasefire, the release of frozen assets and an end to US sanctions and naval restrictions. Washington has so far rejected Tehran’s seven‑day truce offer and is relying on economic pressure rather than further military strikes.
The final U.S. troops have withdrawn from Iraq, ending Operation Inherent Resolve. Tehran and its allies call the pullout a victory and push for American forces to leave the region. Iraqi leaders warn security gaps could follow, as militias and Islamic State remnants pose fresh risks.