Iraq hosted a regional summit aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East while emphasising the Arab country’s new role as a mediator.

Iranian, Gulf Arab officials meet in Baghdad

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;is among leaders set to&nbsp;attend&nbsp;a regional&nbsp;summit&nbsp;Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;summit, while the foreign ministers of arch-foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present.

Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda, but the meeting comes as Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran.

Iraq seeks to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi have said.

Oil-rich Iraq has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-list-biden-says-us-troops-may-have-handed-a-list-of-american-citizens-to-taliban-408871">Also read |&nbsp;Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban</a>

Iran exerts major clout in Iraq through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network.

Baghdad&nbsp;has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016.

Macron&nbsp;aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight against terrorism, his office said.

The French president considers Iraq "essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added.

'More urgent than ever'

An Islamic State (IS) group affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members.

The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and Iraq before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said.

The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban's lightning takeover.

"These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in Iraq and involve its neighbours," a source close to&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said.

"A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh (IS), depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous Iraq," the source added.

A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country.

France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists.

Iraq declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks.

New IS 'strides'

One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;market, killing&nbsp;over&nbsp;30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday.

According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout Iraq and Syria".&nbsp;

Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said.

"(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now Afghanistan will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year."

In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in Iraq would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight against IS.

Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to Iraq.&nbsp;

Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance.

"Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that Iraq is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

French President Emmanuel Macron is among leaders set to attend a regional summit Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting.

French President Emmanuel Macron is among leaders set to attend a regional summit Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the Baghdad summit, while the foreign ministers of arch-foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present. Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda, but the meeting comes as Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran. Iraq seeks to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi have said. Oil-rich Iraq has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States. Also read | Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban Iran exerts major clout in Iraq through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network. Baghdad has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016. Macron aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight against terrorism, his office said. The French president considers Iraq "essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added. 'More urgent than ever' An Islamic State (IS) group affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members. The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and Iraq before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said. The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban's lightning takeover. "These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in Iraq and involve its neighbours," a source close to Macron said. "A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh (IS), depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous Iraq," the source added. A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country. France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists. Iraq declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks. New IS 'strides' One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded Baghdad market, killing over 30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday. According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout Iraq and Syria". Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said. "(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now Afghanistan will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year." In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in Iraq would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight against IS. Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to Iraq. Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance. "Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that Iraq is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

Macron to attend Baghdad summit amid fears over IS

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy. Iraqi interior ministry said that one rocket hit the ground near the Al-Rahman Mosque in the capital's Mansur district, which borders the Green Zone

The attack took place at dawn when Prime Minister &nbsp;Mustafa al-Kadhemi was flying home from Washington after White House talks. During his visit, US President Joe Biden announced end to US combay operations in Iraq.

In recent months, attacks on US interests in Baghdad has been a daily affair. These attacks have been blamed on pro-Iran armed groups within Iraq's security apparatus.

But the attacks had died down in the weeks running up to Kadhemi's Washington visit during which he had faced pressure from hardliners to secure a firm withdrawal date for all remaining US troops.

There had been just one attack since the first week of July, a Saturday drone strike targeting an airbase in Iraqi Kurdistan, which also caused no casualties or damage.

Biden said US relations with Iraq would enter a new phase with American troops exiting combat operations in the country by year-end.

Amid the threat of resurgence of the Islamic State group and Iran's powerful influence in Baghdad, Biden stressed that Washington remains "committed to our security cooperation" while Kadhemi reaffirmed the two countries' "strategic partnership".

But, in a shift that comes as the United States pulls out of Afghanistan, the US leader confirmed that the 2,500 US troops still in Iraq won't be fighting by year-end.

His announcement was welcomed by the Conquest Alliance, the political wing of Iraq's Hashed-al-Shaabi paramilitary network, which is dominated by pro-Iran groups, but not by hardline factions which fear the change will be purely nominal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy.

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy. Iraqi interior ministry said that one rocket hit the ground near the Al-Rahman Mosque in the capital's Mansur district, which borders the Green Zone The attack took place at dawn when Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi was flying home from Washington after White House talks. During his visit, US President Joe Biden announced end to US combay operations in Iraq. In recent months, attacks on US interests in Baghdad has been a daily affair. These attacks have been blamed on pro-Iran armed groups within Iraq's security apparatus. But the attacks had died down in the weeks running up to Kadhemi's Washington visit during which he had faced pressure from hardliners to secure a firm withdrawal date for all remaining US troops. There had been just one attack since the first week of July, a Saturday drone strike targeting an airbase in Iraqi Kurdistan, which also caused no casualties or damage. Biden said US relations with Iraq would enter a new phase with American troops exiting combat operations in the country by year-end. Amid the threat of resurgence of the Islamic State group and Iran's powerful influence in Baghdad, Biden stressed that Washington remains "committed to our security cooperation" while Kadhemi reaffirmed the two countries' "strategic partnership". But, in a shift that comes as the United States pulls out of Afghanistan, the US leader confirmed that the 2,500 US troops still in Iraq won't be fighting by year-end. His announcement was welcomed by the Conquest Alliance, the political wing of Iraq's Hashed-al-Shaabi paramilitary network, which is dominated by pro-Iran groups, but not by hardline factions which fear the change will be purely nominal. (With inputs from agencies)

Rockets fired near US embassy in Baghdad

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested. The blast had taken place five days ago and claimed over 30 lives.

"We have arrested all the members of the cowardly terrorist cell that planned and perpetrated the attack on Al-Woheilat market" in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb in the capital, "and they will be put before a judge today," Kadhemi said on Twitter.&nbsp;

The blast had taken place on the eve of Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. The blast ripped through a crowded Baghdad market. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by the Islamic State.

The blast had sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of the IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas.

The Sunni Muslim jihadists claimed on the Telegram messenger service that an IS suicide bomber detonated an explosives belt in the Woheilat market of northeast Baghdad's Shiite district of Sadr City that was busy with Eid shoppers.

In the panic and chaos of the attack, screams of terror and anguish filled the air. When the smoke cleared, human remains lay strewn amid scattered sandals, market produce and the charred debris of stalls.

(With inouts from agencies)

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested.

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested. The blast had taken place five days ago and claimed over 30 lives. "We have arrested all the members of the cowardly terrorist cell that planned and perpetrated the attack on Al-Woheilat market" in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb in the capital, "and they will be put before a judge today," Kadhemi said on Twitter. The blast had taken place on the eve of Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. The blast ripped through a crowded Baghdad market. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by the Islamic State. The blast had sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of the IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas. The Sunni Muslim jihadists claimed on the Telegram messenger service that an IS suicide bomber detonated an explosives belt in the Woheilat market of northeast Baghdad's Shiite district of Sadr City that was busy with Eid shoppers. In the panic and chaos of the attack, screams of terror and anguish filled the air. When the smoke cleared, human remains lay strewn amid scattered sandals, market produce and the charred debris of stalls. (With inouts from agencies)

Baghdad blast: Iraq PM says suspects arrested

At least 35 people have been killed and 50 wounded in a bomb attack on a busy market in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, saying one of its members detonated an explosive vest.

Iraq: At least 35 people killed, 50 wounded in Baghdad market blast

Baghdad&nbsp;police&nbsp;said Saturday they had&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;a group of related&nbsp;men&nbsp;who&nbsp;allegedly&nbsp;attacked&nbsp;a&nbsp;hospital, as a security source told AFP the&nbsp;armed&nbsp;assault was carried out in retaliation after four Covid patients died when their oxygen was cut.

Security forces "arrested&nbsp;an&nbsp;armed&nbsp;group which&nbsp;attacked&nbsp;al-Kindi&nbsp;hospital", one of the main ones in the Iraqi capital, a&nbsp;police&nbsp;statement said.

About ten people were involved in the attack and were all&nbsp;arrested, the security source said.

They belonged to the family of one of the four patients&nbsp;who&nbsp;died earlier when a power cut turned off ventilators, according to this source.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dreamers-programme-deemed-unlawful-by-us-federal-judge-biden-says-deeply-disappointed-398708">Also read |&nbsp;'Dreamers' programme deemed unlawful by US Federal Judge, Biden says 'deeply disappointed'</a>

The situation in&nbsp;hospitals&nbsp;across the country has often been catastrophic during the pandemic.

There have been two deadly fires in less than three months in Covid-19 units, with one killing more than 80 people in&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;in April and the most recent killing at least 60 on Monday in southern Nassiriya.

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed more than 17,700 lives in Iraq, Covid units have been hastily built to care for patients. The country, however, remains subject to incessant power cuts.

Baghdad police said Saturday they had arrested a group of related men who allegedly attacked a hospital, as a security source told AFP the armed assault was carried out in retaliation after four Covid patients died when their oxygen was cut.

Baghdad police said Saturday they had arrested a group of related men who allegedly attacked a hospital, as a security source told AFP the armed assault was carried out in retaliation after four Covid patients died when their oxygen was cut. Security forces "arrested an armed group which attacked al-Kindi hospital", one of the main ones in the Iraqi capital, a police statement said. About ten people were involved in the attack and were all arrested, the security source said. They belonged to the family of one of the four patients who died earlier when a power cut turned off ventilators, according to this source. Also read | 'Dreamers' programme deemed unlawful by US Federal Judge, Biden says 'deeply disappointed' The situation in hospitals across the country has often been catastrophic during the pandemic. There have been two deadly fires in less than three months in Covid-19 units, with one killing more than 80 people in Baghdad in April and the most recent killing at least 60 on Monday in southern Nassiriya. Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed more than 17,700 lives in Iraq, Covid units have been hastily built to care for patients. The country, however, remains subject to incessant power cuts.

Armed men who attacked Baghdad hospital arrested, says police

A drone was intercepted and shot down near the US&nbsp;embassy in Baghdad on Monday, without causing casualties, two Iraqi security sources told Reuters. 
 
The sources said the drone failed to reach the embassy compound. 
 
Earlier,&nbsp;a volley of rockets targeted the high-security zone in the Iraqi capital that is home to the US embassy, the military and security sources said.

The attack was&nbsp;the third in a week to target Western diplomatic, military or commercial installations across Iraq after months of relative calm.

At least two rockets hit within the perimeter of the Green Zone, where the American and other foreign embassies are based, according to a statement by Iraq's security services.

A security source told AFP at least one rocket hit the headquarters of Iraq's National Security Service near the US diplomatic mission.

Others crashed into nearby residential districts, including a multi-storey parking complex in the neighbourhood of Harithiya, a witness said.&nbsp;

The attack comes one week after more than a dozen rockets targeted a military complex at the Arbil airport in northern Iraq, which hosts foreign troops from a US-led coalition helping Iraq fight jihadists since 2014.

Two people were killed, including one foreign contractor based at the airport, who died immediately, and a civilian, who died of his wounds later.

On Saturday, another wave of rockets hit the Al-Balad airbase north of Baghdad, where Iraq keeps most of the F-16s it has purchased from the US in recent years.

Security sources said at least one local contractor for Sallyport, the US company that maintains the planes, was wounded.

(With inputs from agencies)

A drone was intercepted and shot down near the US embassy in Baghdad on Monday, without causing casualties, two Iraqi security sources told Reuters. The sources said the drone failed to reach the embassy compound.

A drone was intercepted and shot down near the US embassy in Baghdad on Monday, without causing casualties, two Iraqi security sources told Reuters. The sources said the drone failed to reach the embassy compound. Earlier, a volley of rockets targeted the high-security zone in the Iraqi capital that is home to the US embassy, the military and security sources said. The attack was the third in a week to target Western diplomatic, military or commercial installations across Iraq after months of relative calm. At least two rockets hit within the perimeter of the Green Zone, where the American and other foreign embassies are based, according to a statement by Iraq's security services. A security source told AFP at least one rocket hit the headquarters of Iraq's National Security Service near the US diplomatic mission. Others crashed into nearby residential districts, including a multi-storey parking complex in the neighbourhood of Harithiya, a witness said. The attack comes one week after more than a dozen rockets targeted a military complex at the Arbil airport in northern Iraq, which hosts foreign troops from a US-led coalition helping Iraq fight jihadists since 2014. Two people were killed, including one foreign contractor based at the airport, who died immediately, and a civilian, who died of his wounds later. On Saturday, another wave of rockets hit the Al-Balad airbase north of Baghdad, where Iraq keeps most of the F-16s it has purchased from the US in recent years. Security sources said at least one local contractor for Sallyport, the US company that maintains the planes, was wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Drone shot down near US embassy in Baghdad, no casualties: Security sources

Egypt, Jordan and Iraq held a tripartite summit on Sunday. The meeting came as Iraq seeks to move closes to Arab allies of the US in West Asia. Iraq is also trying to act as a mediator between Arab nations and Iran.

Egypt, Jordan and Iraq hold key tripartite summit In Baghdad

A rocket attack on Wednesday evening targeting Baghdad airport, where US soldiers are posted, was carried out with a "booby-trapped drone", a security official told AFP -- a technique increasingly used by pro-Iran groups.

A rocket attack on Wednesday evening targeting Baghdad airport, where US soldiers are posted, was carried out with a "booby-trapped drone", a security official told AFP -- a technique increasingly used by pro-Iran groups. Also Read | Two drones intercepted, shot down over Iraqi air base: Military An hour earlier five rockets had targeted an airbase to the north where US sub-contractors operate, another security source said.

Baghdad airport attack carried out with 'booby-trapped drone'

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding". Last month, media revealed that Iranian and Saudi officials had met in Baghdad in April. This was their first high-level meeting since Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016.

"Talks are still continuing in a good atmosphere," ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said at a press conference.

"We hope these talks can achieve a common understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia," he added.

Ties between the two countries were cut in 2016 after Iranian protestors attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric.

The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting was held on April 9.

Khatibzadeh confirmed the talks on May 10, saying their purpose was "both bilateral and regional", but stressed it was "too soon" to disclose any details.

"De-escalation and (establishing) ties between two great Islamic countries in the Persian Gulf region is to the benefit of both nations," he said at the time.

Iran in late April welcomed a "change of tone" from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman towards it after he called for a "good and special relationship" with Tehran.

The regional rivals have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a Saudi-led military coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels.

Iran backs the Huthis, who are battling the coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in support of an internationally recognised government in 2015.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding".

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding". Last month, media revealed that Iranian and Saudi officials had met in Baghdad in April. This was their first high-level meeting since Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016. "Talks are still continuing in a good atmosphere," ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said at a press conference. "We hope these talks can achieve a common understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia," he added. Ties between the two countries were cut in 2016 after Iranian protestors attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric. The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting was held on April 9. Khatibzadeh confirmed the talks on May 10, saying their purpose was "both bilateral and regional", but stressed it was "too soon" to disclose any details. "De-escalation and (establishing) ties between two great Islamic countries in the Persian Gulf region is to the benefit of both nations," he said at the time. Iran in late April welcomed a "change of tone" from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman towards it after he called for a "good and special relationship" with Tehran. The regional rivals have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a Saudi-led military coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels. Iran backs the Huthis, who are battling the coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in support of an internationally recognised government in 2015. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran says talks with Saudi Arabia ongoing in 'good atmosphere'

Paramilitary groups paraded in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, a day ahead of 'Quds' day which is held annually on the last Friday of holy month of Ramzan.

Iraqi forces slam Israeli atrocities on Int’l Quds day

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both&nbsp;Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said.&nbsp;

A security official told AFP that "Islamic State group assailants" killed a policeman and "wounded two others".

The attackers then "blew up wells 177 and 183 at the Bay Hassan field," the oil ministry said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-army-fires-rockets-at-base-hosting-americans-amid-delegation-visit-382772">Iraqi army fires rockets at base hosting Americans amid delegation visit</a>

The first fire was "brought under control in record time", but "firemen are still active at the second" well several hours after the attack, the ministry added.

Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga forces took control of Kirkuk, home to key oilfields including Bay Hassan, in June 2014 after federal forces withdrew in the face of an IS offensive.

In late 2017, Baghdad officially claimed victory against IS, after a grinding military campaign supported by a US-led coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-bans-terror-prank-television-shows-382730">Iraq bans terror prank television shows</a>&nbsp;

But the Kurds,&nbsp;who run an autonomous government in Arbil, and the federal government dispute ownership of Kirkuk's lucrative oilfields.&nbsp;

IS maintain an ability to perpetrate hit-and-run attacks, operating mainly at night and often exploiting the discord between Baghdad and Arbil. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Iraq&nbsp;is the second-biggest producer in the OPEC cartel of oil-producing nations.

Last month the oil ministry said it exported 88.4 million barrels for $5.5 billion.

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said.

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said. A security official told AFP that "Islamic State group assailants" killed a policeman and "wounded two others". The attackers then "blew up wells 177 and 183 at the Bay Hassan field," the oil ministry said in a statement. Also read | Iraqi army fires rockets at base hosting Americans amid delegation visit The first fire was "brought under control in record time", but "firemen are still active at the second" well several hours after the attack, the ministry added. Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga forces took control of Kirkuk, home to key oilfields including Bay Hassan, in June 2014 after federal forces withdrew in the face of an IS offensive. In late 2017, Baghdad officially claimed victory against IS, after a grinding military campaign supported by a US-led coalition. Also read | Iraq bans terror prank television shows But the Kurds, who run an autonomous government in Arbil, and the federal government dispute ownership of Kirkuk's lucrative oilfields. IS maintain an ability to perpetrate hit-and-run attacks, operating mainly at night and often exploiting the discord between Baghdad and Arbil. Iraq is the second-biggest producer in the OPEC cartel of oil-producing nations. Last month the oil ministry said it exported 88.4 million barrels for $5.5 billion.

IS 'blows up' Iraq oil wells, kills policeman: Officials

At least 82 people have died and 110 injured in a fire that tore through a Baghdad hospital in Iraq, dedicated for caring the COVID-19 patients late on Saturday. Iraq's Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi suspended Health Minister Hassan al-Tamimi after the incident.

82 patients dead in Baghdad's COVID-19 hospital fire, health minister suspended

At least 27 patients have died in a fire that tore through a Baghdad hospital in Iraq, dedicated for caring the COVID-19 patients late on Saturday.

Fire breaks out in COVID-19 hospital in Iraq's Baghdad, 27 dead

Iran and Saudi Arabia denied reports of a rare meeting between their officials in Baghdad. But multiple unnamed sources continued to stand by their reports of a secret meeting on the civil war in Yemen. Is the Iran-Saudi rivalry thawing? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Rare Iran-Saudi talks in Baghdad

A powerful explosion has rocked east Baghdad on Thursday, killing one person and injuring 12 others. The cause of the blast in the Baghdad's Sadr City area is not immediately known.

Powerful explosion rocks east Baghdad, 1 killed and 12 injured

March 19 in history: From mass suicide in China to US' air strikes on Baghdad

Pope Francis is all set to make his historic visit to Iraq despite Wednesday's rocket attacks. The Church organising committee in Baghdad has confirmed that the Pope is determined and is also excited about his forthcoming visit.

Pope Francis to embark on a whirlwind tour to Iraq despite rocket attacks

The Islamic State(IS) group claimed responsibility for the double suicide bombing in the Iraqi capital, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twin-suicide-attack-in-central-baghdad-kills-20-wounds-40-358293">Baghdad</a> on Thursday that killed at least 32 people and wounded more than hundred.

Watch:

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The bombing was a rare deadly attack in the Iraqi capital, which has seen almost no such incident since 2017. &nbsp;The Iraqi interior ministry said that the first attack was targeted at capital's Tayaran Square as the perpetrator drew in crowds after claiming to feel sick and then denoted his bomb fixed to his belt.

A second bomber set off the explosive at the scene leading to more casualties.

President Barham Saleh said his government will "stand firmly against these rogue attempts to destabilise our country" even as the United States, United Nations and the European Union condemned the attack.

US acting secretary of state Daniel Smith said: "The bombings "were vicious acts of mass murder and a sobering reminder of the terrorism that continues to threaten the lives of innocent Iraqis".

The attack comes as Iraqis prepare for the election. The Islamic State&nbsp;had seized a third of Iraq in 2014 and had come dangerously close to annexing Baghdad however a long, ravaging battle lasting three years had ensured the IS terrorists were pushed back.

The United States has 2,500 troops on the ground in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-2500-each-us-says-lowest-troops-deployed-in-iraq-afghanistan-in-about-two-decades-356978">Iraq</a> after the Trump administration pulled out 5,200 troops a year ago.

The Islamic State(IS) group claimed responsibility for the double suicide bombing in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad on Thursday that killed at least 32 people and wounded more than hundred.

The Islamic State(IS) group claimed responsibility for the double suicide bombing in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad on Thursday that killed at least 32 people and wounded more than hundred. Watch: The bombing was a rare deadly attack in the Iraqi capital, which has seen almost no such incident since 2017. The Iraqi interior ministry said that the first attack was targeted at capital's Tayaran Square as the perpetrator drew in crowds after claiming to feel sick and then denoted his bomb fixed to his belt. A second bomber set off the explosive at the scene leading to more casualties. President Barham Saleh said his government will "stand firmly against these rogue attempts to destabilise our country" even as the United States, United Nations and the European Union condemned the attack. US acting secretary of state Daniel Smith said: "The bombings "were vicious acts of mass murder and a sobering reminder of the terrorism that continues to threaten the lives of innocent Iraqis". The attack comes as Iraqis prepare for the election. The Islamic State had seized a third of Iraq in 2014 and had come dangerously close to annexing Baghdad however a long, ravaging battle lasting three years had ensured the IS terrorists were pushed back. The United States has 2,500 troops on the ground in Iraq after the Trump administration pulled out 5,200 troops a year ago.

Islamic State claims responsibility for Baghdad twin bombings

It is being called the deadliest attack in three years. Two suicide blasts in central Baghdad killed at least 32. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Twin suicide bombing kills more than 30 in Iraq

Two men blew themselves up in a crowded Baghdad market on Thursday, killing at least 28 people in Iraq's first big suicide bombing for three years, authorities said, describing it as a possible sign of the reactivation of Islamic State.

Fineprint: Suicide attacks in Iraq's Baghdad kill at least 28

A twin suicide bombing killed at least 23 people and wounded more than 30 in a Baghdad market on Thursday, the first such attack in years, security and medical sources said.

Iraq: Death toll from Baghdad twin suicide attack reaches 23

A twin suicide bombing killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 30 in a Baghdad market on Thursday, the first such attack in years, security and medical sources said.

Rare twin suicide attack kills at least 13 in Baghdad

An Iraqi court has issued an arrest warrant against US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>as part of the investigation over the killing of a top Iraqi paramilitary commander.&nbsp;

Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy head of Iraq's majorly pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary network was killed along with top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike last year on January 3.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The order came on a day when Trump is facing backlash after his supporters stormed into US Capitol building and caused mayhem and violence.&nbsp;

In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-year-after-soleimanis-killing-the-operation-the-method-and-sanctions-354213">A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions</a>

Earlier in the day, the US president also vowed of an "orderly transition" to make way for his Democratic successor Joe Biden who won the November election.&nbsp;

Trump last year ordered the drone attack on the two top military officials and called it that two men were killed "for the price of one".&nbsp;

Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur for extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, has regarded the US actions as "arbitrary" and "illegal".&nbsp;

Earlier in June, Iran issued a warrant against the US president and urged Interpol to send a red notice to other police forces across the world.&nbsp;

The warrant by the Baghdad court was made under Article 406 of the penal code that has a provision for the death penalty in all cases of premeditated murder, the judiciary said.&nbsp;

The court said the preliminary probe had been finished but "investigations are continuing in order to unmask the other culprits in this crime, be they Iraqis or foreigners."

An Iraqi court has issued an arrest warrant against US President Donald Trump as part of the investigation over the killing of a top Iraqi paramilitary commander.

An Iraqi court has issued an arrest warrant against US President Donald Trump as part of the investigation over the killing of a top Iraqi paramilitary commander. Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy head of Iraq's majorly pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary network was killed along with top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike last year on January 3. Watch | The order came on a day when Trump is facing backlash after his supporters stormed into US Capitol building and caused mayhem and violence. In Pics | A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions Earlier in the day, the US president also vowed of an "orderly transition" to make way for his Democratic successor Joe Biden who won the November election. Trump last year ordered the drone attack on the two top military officials and called it that two men were killed "for the price of one". Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur for extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, has regarded the US actions as "arbitrary" and "illegal". Earlier in June, Iran issued a warrant against the US president and urged Interpol to send a red notice to other police forces across the world. The warrant by the Baghdad court was made under Article 406 of the penal code that has a provision for the death penalty in all cases of premeditated murder, the judiciary said. The court said the preliminary probe had been finished but "investigations are continuing in order to unmask the other culprits in this crime, be they Iraqis or foreigners."

Iraqi court issues arrest warrant against Donald Trump

The United States outgoing President Donald Trump has blamed Iran for the attack on its embassy in Baghdad. In a tweet, Trump uploaded a picture of three rockets that he claimed that intended to hit the U.S. embassy but fail to launch. Iran says 'U.S. don't provoke tensions'.

Trump warns Iran over U.S. embassy attack in Baghdad

Iraq's largest Christmas tree has gone up in the capital's Al-Zaura theme park to celebrate Christmas and the three-year anniversary of the defeat of the Islamic State (IS) group.

Christmas tree in Baghdad to celebrate diversity

A tiny shop in Baghdad has been repairing Iraq's oldest time pieces. Three generations have been working in this store at time when smart watches and smartphones have taken over the market.This store is proving to be a timeless treasure.

Iraq's watch repairman is a treasure, watch store houses some classic timepieces

U.S. Embassy in Iraq condemned a rocket attack on its compound in Baghdad’s Green Zone on Sunday, saying it resulted in minor damage but no casualties or injuries.

U.S. Embassy in Baghdad condemns rocket attack on its compound

From a first date that ended in bloody carnage in Baghdad, to finally receiving the keys to a new home in The Netherlands, watch their story of struggle.

From refugee camp to a decent home, this couple flee from violence of Iraq

As hardline Islamists flex their muscles against liquor stores in Baghdad, a bigger story is emerging. The liquor shops owned by Christiansd and Yazidis are being targetted. Out of the 14 alcohol shops firebombed in past two months, most were owned by these minorities.

Some are suspecting turf war for control of the lucrative niche trade in Muslim majority Iraq. 
&nbsp; 
The shops have been firebombed in the middle of the night or just before dawn, with three simultaneous attacks in different districts Monday night alone.&nbsp;

Andre, an Iraqi Christian, said his shop was firebombed a few weeks ago by two people on a motorcycle just before dawn, according to the store's security camera footage.&nbsp;

He said it had cost him thousands of dollars to replace the lost merchandise and repair the shop.

"These groups want the last of the Christians to leave the country. They're targeting us," Andre told AFP, as his brother stacked new bottles of whisky on restored shelves.

He blamed security forces for negligence, saying a police patrol that had been deployed nearby left its post for hours, which gave the attackers a window of opportunity.&nbsp;

"Why doesn't the government arrest them?" Andre asked angrily, saying he had even provided authorities with the license plate number of the attacking vehicle from their CCTV footage.&nbsp;

The attackers had "time to place the explosives, take pictures before and after and publish them on Facebook," he said.

Another business owner, speaking on condition of anonymity in fear of reprisal attacks, said it was an attempt to crush the shrinking community of Iraqi secularists.&nbsp;

"We are all that's left of a liberal lifestyle. There are attempts to kill this ancient side of Baghdad -- if they win, Baghdad will have lost its liberal side," he said.&nbsp;

In recent weeks, an array of Islamist groups have ramped up their rhetoric against Baghdad's liquor stores and other establishments that they insist are violating religious edicts against drinking and other trades considered sinful.

One such group, "Rubu Allah" or "God's gang," claimed responsiblity for raiding a massage parlour in the heart of Baghdad and physically assaulting the women inside.

As hardline Islamists flex their muscles against liquor stores in Baghdad, a bigger story is emerging. The liquor shops owned by Christiansd and Yazidis are being targetted.

As hardline Islamists flex their muscles against liquor stores in Baghdad, a bigger story is emerging. The liquor shops owned by Christiansd and Yazidis are being targetted. Out of the 14 alcohol shops firebombed in past two months, most were owned by these minorities. Some are suspecting turf war for control of the lucrative niche trade in Muslim majority Iraq. The shops have been firebombed in the middle of the night or just before dawn, with three simultaneous attacks in different districts Monday night alone. Andre, an Iraqi Christian, said his shop was firebombed a few weeks ago by two people on a motorcycle just before dawn, according to the store's security camera footage. He said it had cost him thousands of dollars to replace the lost merchandise and repair the shop. "These groups want the last of the Christians to leave the country. They're targeting us," Andre told AFP, as his brother stacked new bottles of whisky on restored shelves. He blamed security forces for negligence, saying a police patrol that had been deployed nearby left its post for hours, which gave the attackers a window of opportunity. "Why doesn't the government arrest them?" Andre asked angrily, saying he had even provided authorities with the license plate number of the attacking vehicle from their CCTV footage. The attackers had "time to place the explosives, take pictures before and after and publish them on Facebook," he said. Another business owner, speaking on condition of anonymity in fear of reprisal attacks, said it was an attempt to crush the shrinking community of Iraqi secularists. "We are all that's left of a liberal lifestyle. There are attempts to kill this ancient side of Baghdad -- if they win, Baghdad will have lost its liberal side," he said. In recent weeks, an array of Islamist groups have ramped up their rhetoric against Baghdad's liquor stores and other establishments that they insist are violating religious edicts against drinking and other trades considered sinful. One such group, "Rubu Allah" or "God's gang," claimed responsiblity for raiding a massage parlour in the heart of Baghdad and physically assaulting the women inside.

Non-Muslim shopowners being targetted in Iraq

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021,&nbsp;the Vatican reported on Monday.

The announcement was made by the&nbsp;Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-installs-new-cardinals-including-first-african-american-346172">Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American</a>

As of now, the trip has been planned for March 5-8. However, a set programme has not been laid out yet and will soon be finalised, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic. "The programme of the journey will be made known in due course, and will take into consideration the evolution of the worldwide health emergency," Bruni said.

This trip has been planned after the Vatican received an invitation from the&nbsp;Iraqi government and the local Catholic Church. The aim of this historic trip, as per sources, is to provide comfort and hope to the Christians who have been stuck and forced to flee from Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries due to the ongoing wars, conflicts and humanitarian crisis.

Iraqi President Barham Salih said in a post on Twitter that the trip "will be a message of peace to Iraqis of all religions &amp; serve to affirm our common values of justice &amp; dignity."

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Due to the ongoing pandemic, all trips scheduled for the Pope in 2020 were cancelled, making this the first overseas trip of Pope Francis after November 2019.

Lately, Iraq has been struggling to bring peace into the country borders with the rising tension in the middle-eastern countries and an ongoing conflict between the government and citizens.

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021, the Vatican reported on Monday. The announcement was made by the Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh.

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021, the Vatican reported on Monday. The announcement was made by the Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh. Also read| Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American As of now, the trip has been planned for March 5-8. However, a set programme has not been laid out yet and will soon be finalised, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic. "The programme of the journey will be made known in due course, and will take into consideration the evolution of the worldwide health emergency," Bruni said. This trip has been planned after the Vatican received an invitation from the Iraqi government and the local Catholic Church. The aim of this historic trip, as per sources, is to provide comfort and hope to the Christians who have been stuck and forced to flee from Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries due to the ongoing wars, conflicts and humanitarian crisis. Iraqi President Barham Salih said in a post on Twitter that the trip "will be a message of peace to Iraqis of all religions & serve to affirm our common values of justice & dignity." × Due to the ongoing pandemic, all trips scheduled for the Pope in 2020 were cancelled, making this the first overseas trip of Pope Francis after November 2019. Lately, Iraq has been struggling to bring peace into the country borders with the rising tension in the middle-eastern countries and an ongoing conflict between the government and citizens.

Pope Francis to make first trip from Vatican to Iraq in March 2021

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