Iraq is holding crucial parliamentary elections to elect 329 members to its Council of Representatives, amid growing regional tensions and domestic political uncertainty. The vote is seen as a key test for Iraq’s stability and governance, as neighboring conflicts and economic challenges loom large.

Iraq: Crucial Parliamentary Polls in Iraq Amid Regional Tensions 

Washington is pressing Baghdad to dismantle pro-Iranian paramilitary groups. The move is risky, but it may pay off.


Iraq elections 2025: Iraq polls to test Iran's fractured influence & US pressure 

Iraq heads to the polls as millions of voters elect 239 representatives to the Council of Representatives - the body responsible for choosing the country’s next Prime Minister. This election marks a key moment for Iraq’s political future amid ongoing economic challenges, security concerns, and public demands for reform.

Preparations Underway for Upcoming Polls on November 11

Iraq Elections: Voters To Elect 239 Representatives To Council That Chooses PM

The United Nations has reaffirmed its full support for Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for November 11, 2025.
During a meeting in Baghdad, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Mohamed Al Hassan, met with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein to discuss final preparations for the national vote and strategies to ensure a transparent, credible, and fair electoral process.

UN Envoy Vows Support for Iraq’s Upcoming Parliamentary Election 

The armed fighters of the Kurdistan Workers Party began the disarmament process in a ceremonial handover of their weapons. Watch in for more details!

PKK Says Withdrawing All Forces From Turkiye To North Iraq

Severe drought across West Asia has worsened food and water shortages in Syria, Iraq, and Turkiye. Climate change is driving the crisis, threatening millions with scarcity and instability.


Climate change drives food and water shortages in Syria, Iraq & Türkiye

Iraqi authorities have commenced the excavation of mass graves south of Mosul, uncovering victims of ISIL atrocities. The efforts aim to identify the deceased and provide closure for families affected by the terror group’s brutal occupation.

Iraq Begins Mass Grave Excavation from ISIL Carnage Near Mosul 

With the end of the UN investigative mandate in Iraq, mass grave exhumations tied to ISIS atrocities and earlier genocides face new uncertainty. Human Rights Watch warns that hundreds of thousands of victims remain unidentified in sites across the country. From Saddam Hussein’s 1988 genocide of Kurds to ISIS’s 2014–2017 mass killings, calls are growing for justice, proper identification, and accountability for the victims and their families.


Skulls unearthed in Iraq as excavation enters 1st phase | DNA recovery hindered

Power was out on Monday across Iraq as scorching summer temperatures pushed demand on the electricity grid to unprecedented levels, authorities said. The electricity ministry said the grid suffered a "total outage" as heat reached 48-50 °C in Baghdad and central and southern regions.&nbsp;It said two transmission lines were shut down "due to a record rise in temperatures, increased consumer demand, and increased electrical load in the provinces of Babylon and Karbala, which are experiencing an influx of millions of pilgrims" for a major Shiite Muslim religious commemoration.&nbsp;The transmission lines shutting down caused "a sudden and accidental loss of more than 6,000 megawatts on the grid", the ministry added, with power plants also halting operations.&nbsp;The outage comes amid a heatwave that Iraqi meteorological services expect to last more than a week.&nbsp;"Our teams are currently mobilised on the ground to gradually restore the grid over the next few hours," the electricity ministry said.&nbsp;Electricity shortages are a frequent complaint in Iraq, which is sometimes rocked by protests when outages worsen in the hot summer months.&nbsp;In July 2023, a fire at a transmission station in the south caused a widespread power outage.&nbsp;While the vast majority of Iraqis rely on private generators, it is often not sufficient to power all household appliances, especially air conditioners.&nbsp;To survive without power outages, Iraq needs to produce approximately 55,000 megawatts during periods of peak demand.&nbsp;This month, for the first time, Iraq's power plants reached the 28,000 megawatt threshold.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The transmission lines shutting down caused "a sudden and accidental loss of more than 6,000 megawatts on the grid", the ministry added, with power plants also halting operations.

Power was out on Monday across Iraq as scorching summer temperatures pushed demand on the electricity grid to unprecedented levels, authorities said. The electricity ministry said the grid suffered a "total outage" as heat reached 48-50 °C in Baghdad and central and southern regions. It said two transmission lines were shut down "due to a record rise in temperatures, increased consumer demand, and increased electrical load in the provinces of Babylon and Karbala, which are experiencing an influx of millions of pilgrims" for a major Shiite Muslim religious commemoration. The transmission lines shutting down caused "a sudden and accidental loss of more than 6,000 megawatts on the grid", the ministry added, with power plants also halting operations. The outage comes amid a heatwave that Iraqi meteorological services expect to last more than a week. "Our teams are currently mobilised on the ground to gradually restore the grid over the next few hours," the electricity ministry said. Electricity shortages are a frequent complaint in Iraq, which is sometimes rocked by protests when outages worsen in the hot summer months. In July 2023, a fire at a transmission station in the south caused a widespread power outage. While the vast majority of Iraqis rely on private generators, it is often not sufficient to power all household appliances, especially air conditioners. To survive without power outages, Iraq needs to produce approximately 55,000 megawatts during periods of peak demand. This month, for the first time, Iraq's power plants reached the 28,000 megawatt threshold. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The transmission lines shutting down caused "a sudden and accidental loss of more than 6,000 megawatts on the grid", the ministry added, with power plants also halting operations.

Iraq gripped with nationwide power outage amid 'record' heat

Iran and Iraq appear to be on the brink of resolving a long-standing dispute over Iranian gas exports and Iraq’s unpaid dues, just as Baghdad battles surging power demand during peak summer months. Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad on Saturday said that both nations are close to settling the issues that have disrupted energy flows and strained bilateral relations, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We will soon witness the resolution of both issues,” Paknejad said, as quoted by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB News after meeting with Iraq’s Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadhil in Tehran. The statement was cited in a Bloomberg report on the matter.<h2>Electricity shortages plague Iraq</h2>The gas shortfall from Iran has significantly impacted Iraq’s electricity generation, pushing parts of the country into deeper blackouts. Iraq’s Electricity Ministry recently confirmed that reduced Iranian gas deliveries had forced cuts in domestic power output, straining an already fragile grid as temperatures soar above 50°C in several provinces.&nbsp;As per Bloomberg, Minister Fadhil’s ministry stressed the urgency of restoring Iranian gas flows to meet Iraq’s peak summer energy needs. Iraq depends on Iran for roughly one-third of its power generation, either through direct gas supplies or imported electricity.<h2>Iran juggles domestic power and export commitments</h2>Despite possessing the world’s second-largest natural gas reserves, Iran continues to face a dilemma: balancing domestic energy demand with export obligations. The country’s internal grid has been under pressure, especially during heatwaves, forcing the government to resort to more polluting fuels.On Tuesday, Saeed Tavakoli, head of the National Iranian Gas Company, said Iran’s power plants had extensively turned to burning mazut, a heavy, sulphur-rich fuel oil, to keep the national grid stable.As quoted by Bloomberg, Tavakoli noted this substitution could free up additional gas for exports, including to Iraq.<h2>Long-term energy ties, short-term challenges</h2>In 2024, Iran and Iraq signed a five-year extension to their gas export agreement. The deal, reported by Shana, the Iranian Oil Ministry’s official news outlet, allows for seasonal flexibility, giving Tehran leeway to prioritise domestic energy needs during winter or peak demand periods.&nbsp;However, payment issues remain a sticking point. Iraq has reportedly fallen behind on dues for gas imports, largely due to US sanctions on Iran that complicate cross-border financial transactions. The two nations have used a mix of currency swaps and escrow accounts in third countries to navigate the restrictions.<h2>A political and energy balancing act</h2>A resolution to the current crisis would not only stabilise Iraq’s power sector but also reaffirm Iran’s role as a key regional energy supplier, despite ongoing infrastructure and sanctions-related challenges.As per Bloomberg, the talks between Tehran and Baghdad signal progress in a region where energy security remains deeply intertwined with diplomacy and domestic pressures. For now, both governments appear committed to a fix, though any sustainable solution will likely require longer-term investments in infrastructure and clearer payment mechanisms.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;

As Iran and Iraq work to end a prolonged energy dispute, US sanctions and regional heatwaves highlight the fragile balance between diplomacy, domestic demand, and cross-border power reliance.

Iran and Iraq appear to be on the brink of resolving a long-standing dispute over Iranian gas exports and Iraq’s unpaid dues, just as Baghdad battles surging power demand during peak summer months. Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad on Saturday said that both nations are close to settling the issues that have disrupted energy flows and strained bilateral relations, as per Bloomberg. “We will soon witness the resolution of both issues,” Paknejad said, as quoted by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB News after meeting with Iraq’s Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadhil in Tehran. The statement was cited in a Bloomberg report on the matter. Electricity shortages plague Iraq The gas shortfall from Iran has significantly impacted Iraq’s electricity generation, pushing parts of the country into deeper blackouts. Iraq’s Electricity Ministry recently confirmed that reduced Iranian gas deliveries had forced cuts in domestic power output, straining an already fragile grid as temperatures soar above 50°C in several provinces. As per Bloomberg, Minister Fadhil’s ministry stressed the urgency of restoring Iranian gas flows to meet Iraq’s peak summer energy needs. Iraq depends on Iran for roughly one-third of its power generation, either through direct gas supplies or imported electricity. Iran juggles domestic power and export commitments Despite possessing the world’s second-largest natural gas reserves, Iran continues to face a dilemma: balancing domestic energy demand with export obligations. The country’s internal grid has been under pressure, especially during heatwaves, forcing the government to resort to more polluting fuels. On Tuesday, Saeed Tavakoli, head of the National Iranian Gas Company, said Iran’s power plants had extensively turned to burning mazut, a heavy, sulphur-rich fuel oil, to keep the national grid stable. As quoted by Bloomberg, Tavakoli noted this substitution could free up additional gas for exports, including to Iraq. Long-term energy ties, short-term challenges In 2024, Iran and Iraq signed a five-year extension to their gas export agreement. The deal, reported by Shana, the Iranian Oil Ministry’s official news outlet, allows for seasonal flexibility, giving Tehran leeway to prioritise domestic energy needs during winter or peak demand periods. However, payment issues remain a sticking point. Iraq has reportedly fallen behind on dues for gas imports, largely due to US sanctions on Iran that complicate cross-border financial transactions. The two nations have used a mix of currency swaps and escrow accounts in third countries to navigate the restrictions. A political and energy balancing act A resolution to the current crisis would not only stabilise Iraq’s power sector but also reaffirm Iran’s role as a key regional energy supplier, despite ongoing infrastructure and sanctions-related challenges. As per Bloomberg, the talks between Tehran and Baghdad signal progress in a region where energy security remains deeply intertwined with diplomacy and domestic pressures. For now, both governments appear committed to a fix, though any sustainable solution will likely require longer-term investments in infrastructure and clearer payment mechanisms. (With inputs from the agencies)

Iran and Iraq are close to resolving a gas export and payment dispute, aiming to restore critical energy flows amid Iraq’s worsening summer power crisis.

Iran signals breakthrough on gas supply, payments with Iraq

A disturbing video showed a massive fireball completely engulfing a shopping hypermarket in the city of Kut in eastern Iraq. The fire in the five-storey building started last night. The market also had a restaurant, and many families were inside at the time of the accident. At least 60 people are reported killed in the blaze.&nbsp;The Wasjit province governor, Mohammed al-Mayahi, said the fire broke out as the families were having dinner or were shopping. The firefighters were still toiling to put out the fire.&nbsp;The local government has launched a probe into the incident. The probe report will be filed within 48 hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;The governor described the fire as a tragedy and a calamity. He said the government has filed lawsuits against the owner of the building and the hypermarket.&nbsp;"The number of victims has reached about 60 people, martyrs and injured, in the tragic fire at a major shopping center,” Mohammed al-Miyahi told the official INA news agency.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The glowing flames in the darkness of the night are telling the scene of death!🔥 So far more than 50 people have died and many are burnt in the massive fire in the shopping mall in Kut city of Iraq🇮🇶.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraqi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraqi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FireAccident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FireAccident</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Global?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Global</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Disaster?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Disaster</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/World?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#World</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%82?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#العراق</a> <a href="https://t.co/5QYEOytXOQ">pic.twitter.com/5QYEOytXOQ</a>&mdash; Sanjeev (@wing4destiny) <a href="https://twitter.com/wing4destiny/status/1945731926796669334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The causes of the blaze are not yet identified. Kut is located 160 kilometers southeast of Baghdad.&nbsp;The mall had opened just five days ago. The local government has declared a three-day mourning period in the province.&nbsp;Ambulances were still transporting casualties as late as 4:00 am, filling beds of a hospital in Kut.&nbsp;Initial reports suggested the fire started on the first floor. This is a developing story. More information will be added shortly.

A disturbing video showed a massive fireball completely engulfing a shopping hypermarket in the city of Kut in eastern Iraq. The fire in the five-storey building started last night. The market also had a restaurant, and many families were inside at the time of the accident. 

A disturbing video showed a massive fireball completely engulfing a shopping hypermarket in the city of Kut in eastern Iraq. The fire in the five-storey building started last night. The market also had a restaurant, and many families were inside at the time of the accident. At least 60 people are reported killed in the blaze. The Wasjit province governor, Mohammed al-Mayahi, said the fire broke out as the families were having dinner or were shopping. The firefighters were still toiling to put out the fire. The local government has launched a probe into the incident. The probe report will be filed within 48 hours. The governor described the fire as a tragedy and a calamity. He said the government has filed lawsuits against the owner of the building and the hypermarket. "The number of victims has reached about 60 people, martyrs and injured, in the tragic fire at a major shopping center,” Mohammed al-Miyahi told the official INA news agency.

Iraq mall fire video: The Wasjit province governor, Mohammed al-Mayahi, said the fire broke out as the families were having dinner or were shopping.

Shocking drone video shows Iraq mall engulfed in gigantic fireball; over 60 killed

Israel which began launching missiles in Iran under Operation Rising Lion last week has turned into a full-blown war now, with Iran retaliating with its full power. As Israel killed several Iranian top military officials and nuclear scientists, this scenario reminds of Mossad's mission to kill Iraq President Saddam Hussein in the 1990s.Operation Bramble Bush, an Israel's Mossad operation to assassinate Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was launched in 1992. However, the operation failed, leading to the killing of Israel's own soldiers.<h2>Here's what happened</h2>After the 1991 Gulf war, Israel viewed Saddam as a dangerous threat to nation. Israel had to deal with multiple Scud missile attacks from Iraq when though it wasn't even a part of the war.According to Intelligence, Saddam was developing weapons of mass destruction. The Israeli military aimed to eliminate the threat and came up with a mission to assassinate Saddam at a public event.The Israeli mission was codenamed "Operation Bramble Bush" and was carried out by Israel's most elite commando unit, Sayeret Matkal. The IDF's top brass approved the operation, while Mossad provided the intelligence.Saddam was expected to attend a funeral in his hometown Tikrit. As per the mission, the Israeli commandos would infiltrate the area and launch shoulder-fired missiles at Saddam's convoy during the ceremony.<h2>Tze'elim Bet disaster</h2>On November 5, 1992, Sayeret Matkal conducted a live-fire rehearsal in the Negev Desert. As they were imitating the real attack, they used live missiles, assuming that safety measures were foolproof. However, turned out, that wasn't the case.As they simulated, one of the operatives mistakenly fired a real missile at his own team, killing five elite soldiers and severely injuring six others. The mission was then immediately aborted and was later known as Tze'elim Bet disaster.As per the investigation, it was revealed that serious lapses in planning, communication and risk assessment were behind the disaster.Israel kept the information of the deaths of soldiers a secret for years and the operation remains classified.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Operation Bramble Bush, an Israel's Mossad operation to assassinate Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was launched in 1992. 

Israel which began launching missiles in Iran under Operation Rising Lion last week has turned into a full-blown war now, with Iran retaliating with its full power. As Israel killed several Iranian top military officials and nuclear scientists, this scenario reminds of Mossad's mission to kill Iraq President Saddam Hussein in the 1990s. Operation Bramble Bush, an Israel's Mossad operation to assassinate Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was launched in 1992. However, the operation failed, leading to the killing of Israel's own soldiers. Here's what happened After the 1991 Gulf war, Israel viewed Saddam as a dangerous threat to nation. Israel had to deal with multiple Scud missile attacks from Iraq when though it wasn't even a part of the war. According to Intelligence, Saddam was developing weapons of mass destruction. The Israeli military aimed to eliminate the threat and came up with a mission to assassinate Saddam at a public event. The Israeli mission was codenamed "Operation Bramble Bush" and was carried out by Israel's most elite commando unit, Sayeret Matkal. The IDF's top brass approved the operation, while Mossad provided the intelligence. Saddam was expected to attend a funeral in his hometown Tikrit. As per the mission, the Israeli commandos would infiltrate the area and launch shoulder-fired missiles at Saddam's convoy during the ceremony. Tze'elim Bet disaster On November 5, 1992, Sayeret Matkal conducted a live-fire rehearsal in the Negev Desert. As they were imitating the real attack, they used live missiles, assuming that safety measures were foolproof. However, turned out, that wasn't the case. As they simulated, one of the operatives mistakenly fired a real missile at his own team, killing five elite soldiers and severely injuring six others. The mission was then immediately aborted and was later known as Tze'elim Bet disaster. As per the investigation, it was revealed that serious lapses in planning, communication and risk assessment were behind the disaster. Israel kept the information of the deaths of soldiers a secret for years and the operation remains classified.

Operation Bramble Bush, an Israel's Mossad operation to assassinate Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was launched in 1992.&nbsp;

Israel's Operation Bramble Bush: How Mossad's failed plot to kill Saddam Hussein led to Tze’elim Bet disaster – EXPLAINED

Baghdad has appealed to Tehran not to attack US interests in Iraq, a top security official said on Saturday (June 14), as Washington's Israeli ally and Iran exchanged blows, fueling tensions throughout the region.&nbsp;The Baghdad government is a close ally of Tehran but also a strategic ally of Iran's arch-enemy the United States, which has around 2,500 troops in Iraq as part of an anti-jihadist alliance.&nbsp;Hoping not to be drawn into a localised escalation, Iraq's government requested Tehran to refrain from launching strikes in its territory, a high-ranking Iraqi security official was quoted saying to AFP.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-distances-itself-from-sco-statement-that-condemned-israeli-strikes-on-iran-mea-explains-why-1749905229847">India distances itself from SCO statement that condemned Israeli strikes on Iran, MEA explains why</a>&nbsp;"The request was made. They promised us positive things," said the official, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. &nbsp;The official further added that Tehran has shown understanding about Baghdad's request.&nbsp;Before the current escalation, which began early Friday (June 13) with a series of Israeli attacks on military and nuclear sites in Iran, Tehran had threatened to strike military bases hosting US forces in the region in the event of a conflict triggered by the possible failure of nuclear talks with Washington. &nbsp;During the Gaza war, which started in October 2023 and is opposing Israel against Iran-aligned Palestinian militant group Hamas, Tehran-aligned armed forces have fired scores of rockets and drones into Iraq targeting the US troops and in neighboring Syria.&nbsp;Before attacks launched were started, the United States on Wednesday (June 11) reported that it was cutting staff at its Baghdad embassy due to security concerns.&nbsp;Several pro-Iran groups in Iraq called on Friday to accelerate the departure of US forces from the country, with the powerful Kataeb Hezbollah warning of "additional wars in the region".

After Irans WARNING Baghdad asks Tehran to avoid strikes on US targets in Iraq

Baghdad has appealed to Tehran not to attack US interests in Iraq, a top security official said on Saturday (June 14), as Washington's Israeli ally and Iran exchanged blows, fueling tensions throughout the region. The Baghdad government is a close ally of Tehran but also a strategic ally of Iran's arch-enemy the United States, which has around 2,500 troops in Iraq as part of an anti-jihadist alliance. Hoping not to be drawn into a localised escalation, Iraq's government requested Tehran to refrain from launching strikes in its territory, a high-ranking Iraqi security official was quoted saying to AFP. Also Read: India distances itself from SCO statement that condemned Israeli strikes on Iran, MEA explains why "The request was made. They promised us positive things," said the official, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The official further added that Tehran has shown understanding about Baghdad's request. Before the current escalation, which began early Friday (June 13) with a series of Israeli attacks on military and nuclear sites in Iran, Tehran had threatened to strike military bases hosting US forces in the region in the event of a conflict triggered by the possible failure of nuclear talks with Washington. During the Gaza war, which started in October 2023 and is opposing Israel against Iran-aligned Palestinian militant group Hamas, Tehran-aligned armed forces have fired scores of rockets and drones into Iraq targeting the US troops and in neighboring Syria. Before attacks launched were started, the United States on Wednesday (June 11) reported that it was cutting staff at its Baghdad embassy due to security concerns. Several pro-Iran groups in Iraq called on Friday to accelerate the departure of US forces from the country, with the powerful Kataeb Hezbollah warning of "additional wars in the region".

The government in Baghdad is a close ally of Tehran but also a strategic partner of Iran's arch-foe the United States

After Iran's WARNING, Baghdad asks Tehran to avoid strikes on US targets in Iraq

Turkey has been rapidly expanding its military deployment in northern Iraq ever since the Kurdistan Workers Party or PKK declared ceasefire early last month. Watch in for more details!

Iraq warns of unprecedented Turkish expansion post-PKK ceasefire

A severe sandstorm hits central and southern Iraq, prompting warnings and advisories for residents to stay indoors and wear masks. Environment Ministry blames global warming for increasing frequency of sandstorms.

Heavy sandstorm hits central and southern Iraq, warning issued in Najaf

Iraq has often been accused of funneling weapons from Iran. Time and again, Iraq has always denied these accusations. Our next report gets you the latest from Baghdad's defence exhibition.

UK, China, US participate in Iraq's defence fair

Despite facing years of executions and abuse by the Islamic State, Yazidis remain resilient. Each year, Yazidis gather at Lalish Temple in Dohuk to mark Red Wednesday, the Yazidi New Year.

Yazidis red wednesday

A wind storm swept across several countries in West Asia this week. From Dubai to Iraq, many braced for poor air quality and near-zero visibility.

Iraq storm: over 3,000 hospitalised

A sandstorm in central and southern Iraq sent more than 3,700 people to hospitals with respiratory problems on Monday, health officials said.

Major sandstorm triggers health crisis in Iraq

A sandstorm in central and southern Iraq sent more than 1,800 people to hospitals with respiratory problems on Monday, health officials said.

Iraq sandstorm leaves 1,800 people with respiratory problems

#Gravitas For the first time, Iran has transferred long-range missiles to its proxy forces in Iraq.

Iran arms Iraq with deadly missiles as US talks loom

The number of countries that executed citizens for various crimes was the lowest at 15 in 2024, but the count of state executions globally rose to 1,518, marking a 32% increase over the previous year and the highest since the 2015 figure of 1,634, said Amnesty International in its annual report on the use of the death penalty.
The report, released on Tuesday (April 8), further cautioned that the real total is likely to be thousands more as its figure did not include the executions believed to have taken place in China, the world&rsquo;s biggest executioner, North Korea, and Vietnam.
More people were executed in 2024 due to a huge increase in executions in Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Amnesty said that although the number of countries carrying out executions was the lowest on record, 1,518 executions globally in 2024 denoted a 32% increase over the previous year and the highest since the 1,634 carried out in 2015.
<h2>Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia carried out 91% of total executions</h2>
Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia accounted for 91% of state executions worldwide and were the main culprits for the increase. In Iraq, executions quadrupled from 16 to 63, and those in Saudi Arabia doubled in a year from 172 to 345. Iran executed at least 972, including 30 women, 119 more than in 2023, and accounted for 64% of the global total.&nbsp; While the executions in Iraq were for terrorism offences, about half of those in Iran were for drug-related crimes.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dangerous-mpox-strain-clade-1b-may-be-spreading-undetected-in-uk-report-8938365">Dangerous Mpox strain Clade 1b may be spreading undetected in UK: Report</a>
 Other countries where executions increased were Egypt (from eight in 2023 to 13 last year); Singapore (from five to nine); and Yemen, where the count more than doubled from 15 to 38. Yemen was also among the top five countries responsible for executions. There were a total of 25 executions in the US, one more than in 2023 and the most since 2018, in what was Joe Biden&rsquo;s last year in office.&nbsp; Biden&rsquo;s successor, Donald Trump, has said he aims to &ldquo;vigorously pursue&rdquo; the death penalty as a tool to protect people &ldquo;from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters&rdquo;. Only 15 countries executed people in 2024, the lowest on record for the second year running, Amnesty said, adding that 113 countries were now fully abolitionist and 145 had abolished the death penalty in law or in practice.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-orders-removal-of-witness-tree-200-year-old-magnolia-planted-by-andrew-jackson-cut-down-at-white-house-8937967" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump orders removal of White House 'witness tree': 200-year-old magnolia, planted by Andrew Jackson, cut down</a> The human rights NGO also noted that several countries had legally limited their use of the death penalty, and more than two-thirds of all UN member states had voted in favour of a resolution on a moratorium. Agn&egrave;s Callamard, Amnesty International&rsquo;s secretary general, said countries that retained the death penalty were an &ldquo;isolated minority&rdquo; as the tide was turning against &ldquo;a cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment&rdquo;. But the death penalty is still being weaponised in some countries under the &ldquo;false pretence&rdquo; that it would improve public safety and in others to silence political dissent from &ldquo;those brave enough to speak out&rdquo;, Callamard added. More than 40% of executions in 2024 were for drug-related offences, which have no proven effect in reducing drug trafficking, Amnesty said.
<h2>Iran used death sentence to punish participants in 'Women, Life, Freedom' protests&nbsp;</h2>
Amnesty said Iran &ldquo;persisted&rdquo; in its use of death sentences to punish participants in the &ldquo;Women, Life, Freedom&rdquo; protests of 2022, including a youngster with a mental disability, following unfair trials and torture-tainted &lsquo;confessions&rsquo; and alone accounted for 64% of all known executions. Saudi Arabia continued to use the death penalty to silence political dissent and punish members of its Shiite minority, it added. &ldquo;Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the most cruel of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia,&rdquo; said Callamard. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alien-enemies-act-trump-says-great-day-for-justice-after-us-top-court-lifts-order-barring-deportations-8937346" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alien Enemies Act: Trump says 'GREAT DAY FOR JUSTICE' after US top court lifts order barring deportations</a> The NGO warned that the Maldives, Nigeria, and Tonga are considering introducing capital punishment for drug-related offences, while&nbsp;the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burkina Faso have announced plans to bring back executions for ordinary crimes.

World: Only 15 countries executed people in 2024, the lowest on record for the second year running, Amnesty said, adding that 113 countries were now fully abolitionist and 145 had abolished the death penalty in law or in practice.

The number of countries that executed citizens for various crimes was the lowest at 15 in 2024, but the count of state executions globally rose to 1,518, marking a 32% increase over the previous year and the highest since the 2015 figure of 1,634, said Amnesty International in its annual report on the use of the death penalty. The report, released on Tuesday (April 8), further cautioned that the real total is likely to be thousands more as its figure did not include the executions believed to have taken place in China, the world’s biggest executioner, North Korea, and Vietnam. More people were executed in 2024 due to a huge increase in executions in Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Amnesty said that although the number of countries carrying out executions was the lowest on record, 1,518 executions globally in 2024 denoted a 32% increase over the previous year and the highest since the 1,634 carried out in 2015. Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia carried out 91% of total executions Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia accounted for 91% of state executions worldwide and were the main culprits for the increase. In Iraq, executions quadrupled from 16 to 63, and those in Saudi Arabia doubled in a year from 172 to 345. Iran executed at least 972, including 30 women, 119 more than in 2023, and accounted for 64% of the global total. While the executions in Iraq were for terrorism offences, about half of those in Iran were for drug-related crimes. Also Read | Dangerous Mpox strain Clade 1b may be spreading undetected in UK: Report Other countries where executions increased were Egypt (from eight in 2023 to 13 last year); Singapore (from five to nine); and Yemen, where the count more than doubled from 15 to 38. Yemen was also among the top five countries responsible for executions. There were a total of 25 executions in the US, one more than in 2023 and the most since 2018, in what was Joe Biden’s last year in office. Biden’s successor, Donald Trump, has said he aims to “vigorously pursue” the death penalty as a tool to protect people “from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters”. Only 15 countries executed people in 2024, the lowest on record for the second year running, Amnesty said, adding that 113 countries were now fully abolitionist and 145 had abolished the death penalty in law or in practice. Also read: Trump orders removal of White House 'witness tree': 200-year-old magnolia, planted by Andrew Jackson, cut down The human rights NGO also noted that several countries had legally limited their use of the death penalty, and more than two-thirds of all UN member states had voted in favour of a resolution on a moratorium. Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s secretary general, said countries that retained the death penalty were an “isolated minority” as the tide was turning against “a cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment”. But the death penalty is still being weaponised in some countries under the “false pretence” that it would improve public safety and in others to silence political dissent from “those brave enough to speak out”, Callamard added. More than 40% of executions in 2024 were for drug-related offences, which have no proven effect in reducing drug trafficking, Amnesty said. Iran used death sentence to punish participants in 'Women, Life, Freedom' protests Amnesty said Iran “persisted” in its use of death sentences to punish participants in the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests of 2022, including a youngster with a mental disability, following unfair trials and torture-tainted ‘confessions’ and alone accounted for 64% of all known executions. Saudi Arabia continued to use the death penalty to silence political dissent and punish members of its Shiite minority, it added. “Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the most cruel of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia,” said Callamard. Also read: Alien Enemies Act: Trump says 'GREAT DAY FOR JUSTICE' after US top court lifts order barring deportations The NGO warned that the Maldives, Nigeria, and Tonga are considering introducing capital punishment for drug-related offences, while the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burkina Faso have announced plans to bring back executions for ordinary crimes.

State executions rise 32% to decade high; Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia behind ‘sharp surge’

A historic ceasefire between the PKK militants and Turkiye has stirred a mix of emotions in Tukiye and Iraq. Iraq has called on Turkiye and PKK to withdraw from its northern regions immediately.

Has the 40-year Turkiye-PKK conflict come to an end?

The UK and Iraq are all set to sign a strategic partnership. Iraqi Prime Minister Shia' al-Sudani made the announcement as he flew to London for an official visit, against the backdrop of historic shifts in West Asia.

Iraqi PM visits London amid upheaval in West Asia

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host his Iraqi counterpart in Downing Street to mark a revamped relationship between the UK and Iraq. During the meeting, the two leaders are expected to have talks on boosting cooperation on trade, growth and illegal migration. Watch to know more!

British, Iraqi Premiers To Discuss Bilateral Ties, Sign Cooperation Deal | WION | World News

A jury has ordered the Virginia-based defence contractor CACI International to pay $42 million in damages for its involvement in the abuse of detainees at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison.&nbsp;

The plaintiffs were three Iraqi men including Salah Al-Ejaili, a journalist now living in Sweden, Asa’ad Al-Zuba’e, a grocery store owner from Iraq, and Suhail Al Shimari, an Iraqi middle school principal who claim they were tortured at Abu Ghraib prison nearly 20 years ago.&nbsp;

They testified that they were subjected to mistreatment at Abu Ghraib in November 2003, including being forced into uncomfortable positions, stripped naked, and threatened with dogs.

This is the first time a civilian contractor is being held legally accountable for the mistreatment of detainees at the prison, located near Baghdad, where US forces detained multiple Iraqis after the US-led invasion toppled Saddam Hussein.

Under a contract with the US government, CACI personnel worked as interrogators at Abu Ghraib. The company’s lawyers argued that none of their employees physically harmed detainees or participated directly in any abuse.&nbsp;

However, attorneys representing the Iraqi men alleged that CACI interrogators would direct military personnel to “soften up” detainees before questioning, which led to abuse.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668">US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troop deployment in Russia</a>

"This is a remarkable moment of justice and vindication for our clients, who fought tirelessly for 16 years to be heard in a US court," Baher Azmy, an attorney with the Center for Constitutional Rights, who represented the plaintiffs was cited saying by The Washington Post.

During closing arguments, Muhammad U. Faridi, another attorney for the plaintiffs, said that CACI managers in Virginia were aware of the abuse as early as 2003 and should be held responsible, similar to the Army personnel who were later convicted in military courts. "You saw regret and remorse from so many witnesses. … The only entity that has no regrets, no remorse, over what happened is CACI," Faridi stated.

Meanwhile, CACI’s attorney, John F. O'Connor Jr., argued in court that there was no record of Al-Ejaili’s (plaintiff) interrogation and that the testimonies of the plaintiffs were not backed by other witnesses. He described the plaintiffs as "props" in a "lawyer-driven case," adding that "no witness recalled any interaction with these plaintiffs."

The case against CACI was initially filed in 2008.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A jury has ordered the Virginia-based defence contractor CACI International to pay $42 million in damages for its involvement in the abuse of detainees at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison.

A jury has ordered the Virginia-based defence contractor CACI International to pay $42 million in damages for its involvement in the abuse of detainees at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison. The plaintiffs were three Iraqi men including Salah Al-Ejaili, a journalist now living in Sweden, Asa’ad Al-Zuba’e, a grocery store owner from Iraq, and Suhail Al Shimari, an Iraqi middle school principal who claim they were tortured at Abu Ghraib prison nearly 20 years ago. They testified that they were subjected to mistreatment at Abu Ghraib in November 2003, including being forced into uncomfortable positions, stripped naked, and threatened with dogs. This is the first time a civilian contractor is being held legally accountable for the mistreatment of detainees at the prison, located near Baghdad, where US forces detained multiple Iraqis after the US-led invasion toppled Saddam Hussein. Under a contract with the US government, CACI personnel worked as interrogators at Abu Ghraib. The company’s lawyers argued that none of their employees physically harmed detainees or participated directly in any abuse. However, attorneys representing the Iraqi men alleged that CACI interrogators would direct military personnel to “soften up” detainees before questioning, which led to abuse. Also read: US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troop deployment in Russia "This is a remarkable moment of justice and vindication for our clients, who fought tirelessly for 16 years to be heard in a US court," Baher Azmy, an attorney with the Center for Constitutional Rights, who represented the plaintiffs was cited saying by The Washington Post. During closing arguments, Muhammad U. Faridi, another attorney for the plaintiffs, said that CACI managers in Virginia were aware of the abuse as early as 2003 and should be held responsible, similar to the Army personnel who were later convicted in military courts. "You saw regret and remorse from so many witnesses. … The only entity that has no regrets, no remorse, over what happened is CACI," Faridi stated. Meanwhile, CACI’s attorney, John F. O'Connor Jr., argued in court that there was no record of Al-Ejaili’s (plaintiff) interrogation and that the testimonies of the plaintiffs were not backed by other witnesses. He described the plaintiffs as "props" in a "lawyer-driven case," adding that "no witness recalled any interaction with these plaintiffs." The case against CACI was initially filed in 2008. (With inputs from agencies)

US defense contractor ordered to pay $42 million over role in Abu Ghraib prison torture

The oil-rich nation of Iraq went to polls in long-awaited parliamentary elections and there is no shortage of celebrations on the streets.

Two Major Political Parties Locked in Rivalry

Turkey’s Ministry of Defence said on&nbsp;Wednesday (23&nbsp;Oct) that Turkish jets launched airstrikes on Kurdish militant positions in Iraq and Syria following an attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries headquarters. According to the ministry’s statement, cited by the state-run Anadolu Agency, over 30 targets were "destroyed" in the aerial assault.

"A total of 32 targets belonging to the terrorists were successfully destroyed," it said.

The strikes come on the heels of an incident on Wednesday where suspected Kurdish militants detonated explosives and opened fire at TUSAS, Turkey's state-run aerospace and defence firm. The attack left five people dead and more than a dozen injured, as confirmed by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terror-attack-at-turkish-aerospace-industries-in-ankara-several-dead-and-injured-770117">Terror attack at Turkish Aerospace Industries in Ankara; 4 killed, 14 injured</a>

Yerlikaya added that the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) is believed to be behind the attack, though investigations to confirm the identities of the attackers are still ongoing. Defence Minister Yasar Guler also held the PKK responsible, saying, “We give these PKK scoundrels the punishment they deserve every time. But they never come to their senses. We will pursue them until the last terrorist is eliminated.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack, calling it a "heinous terrorist act" during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at a BRICS event in Russia. The United States Embassy in Turkey also released a statement, strongly condemning the incident.

<h2>What is&nbsp;TUSAS?</h2>

TUSAS plays a key role in Turkey’s defence sector, as it makes both civilian and military aircraft, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These UAVs have been instrumental in Turkey’s fight against Kurdish militants within its borders and in neighbouring Iraq.

This attack comes just one day after the leader of Turkey's far-right nationalist party, which is aligned with Erdogan, hinted at the possibility of parole for the imprisoned leader of the PKK, provided he renounces violence and dissolves the group.

In response to the attack, the Iraqi embassy in Ankara issued a statement condemning the violence. The embassy affirmed "Iraq's firm position in rejecting terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations, and expresses the solidarity of Iraq's government and people, with the government and people of the Republic of Turkey." Earlier this year, Iraq imposed a ban on the PKK.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkey’s Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday (23 Oct) that Turkish jets launched airstrikes on Kurdish militant positions in Iraq and Syria following an attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries headquarters.

Turkey’s Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday (23 Oct) that Turkish jets launched airstrikes on Kurdish militant positions in Iraq and Syria following an attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries headquarters. According to the ministry’s statement, cited by the state-run Anadolu Agency, over 30 targets were "destroyed" in the aerial assault. "A total of 32 targets belonging to the terrorists were successfully destroyed," it said. The strikes come on the heels of an incident on Wednesday where suspected Kurdish militants detonated explosives and opened fire at TUSAS, Turkey's state-run aerospace and defence firm. The attack left five people dead and more than a dozen injured, as confirmed by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. Also read: Terror attack at Turkish Aerospace Industries in Ankara; 4 killed, 14 injured Yerlikaya added that the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) is believed to be behind the attack, though investigations to confirm the identities of the attackers are still ongoing. Defence Minister Yasar Guler also held the PKK responsible, saying, “We give these PKK scoundrels the punishment they deserve every time. But they never come to their senses. We will pursue them until the last terrorist is eliminated.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack, calling it a "heinous terrorist act" during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at a BRICS event in Russia. The United States Embassy in Turkey also released a statement, strongly condemning the incident. What is TUSAS? TUSAS plays a key role in Turkey’s defence sector, as it makes both civilian and military aircraft, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These UAVs have been instrumental in Turkey’s fight against Kurdish militants within its borders and in neighbouring Iraq. This attack comes just one day after the leader of Turkey's far-right nationalist party, which is aligned with Erdogan, hinted at the possibility of parole for the imprisoned leader of the PKK, provided he renounces violence and dissolves the group. In response to the attack, the Iraqi embassy in Ankara issued a statement condemning the violence. The embassy affirmed "Iraq's firm position in rejecting terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations, and expresses the solidarity of Iraq's government and people, with the government and people of the Republic of Turkey." Earlier this year, Iraq imposed a ban on the PKK. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey retaliates with airstrikes on 32 PKK targets in Iraq, Syria after deadly terror attack on TUSAS

Following the conclusion of the 11-hour general voting procedure for the sixth term of the Kurdistan Parliament elections, the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) reported a 72% voter turnout. Watch in for more details!

Iraqi Kurdistan Parliamentary Polls 2024: Preliminary Results Show KDP's Significant Lead Over PUK

Iraq, once a major importer of wheat, is now facing a surplus of 1.5 million metric tons. This unexpected abundance is a result of favourable weather conditions and generous government subsidies. Watch in for more details!

Iraq's Wheat Surplus Poses Major Challenge Amid Falling Oil Prices

iraq

Iraq, News on Iraq, stories on Iraq, articles on Iraq, Iraq stories at Wion, Iraq news, Iraq latest news