The United States announced on Friday it will effectively close its consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra and relocate diplomatic personnel assigned there following increasing threats from Iran and Iran-backed militia, including rocket fire.

The decision adds to mounting tension between the United States and Iran, which is the target of increasing US&nbsp;economic sanctions.

In Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said the consulate closure was "unjustified and unnecessary", and said Iran condemned any attack on diplomats or diplomatic locations, according to the ministry's website.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, as he explained the move, renewed a warning that the United States would hold Iran directly responsible for any attacks on Americans and US&nbsp;diplomatic facilities.

It followed recent rocket attacks that Pompeo said were directed at the consulate in Basra. US&nbsp;officials said the rockets, however, had not impacted the consulate, which is located on the Basra airport compound.

"I have made clear that Iran should understand that the United States will respond promptly and appropriately to any such attacks," Pompeo said in a statement.

Pompeo did not explicitly say whether a US&nbsp;response was imminent, however, and other US&nbsp;officials did not disclose potential response options.

Still, Pompeo said the threats against US&nbsp;personnel and facilities in Iraq were "increasing and specific" and added that Washington was working with Iraqi forces and US&nbsp;allies to address them.

"We look to all international parties interested in peace and stability in Iraq and the region to reinforce our message to Iran regarding the unacceptability of their behavior," he said.

In a statement, the US&nbsp;State Department said the consulate was placed on "ordered departure," which technically involves a drawdown in staff. Although some personnel could remain on the diplomatic compound, the move is believed to effectively close the consulate, at least temporarily.

The decision came days after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly, with Trump vowing more sanctions and accusing Iran's leaders of sowing "chaos, death and destruction."

Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, speaking at a nearby event in New York on Tuesday, warned "there will indeed be hell to pay" if Iran crosses the United States, its allies or harms US&nbsp;citizens.

In May, Trump withdrew the United States from an international deal to put curbs on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for easing sanctions.

France, Britain, Germany, China and Russia have stayed in the pact, vowing to save it despite the restoration of US&nbsp;sanctions. The rial has lost 40 percent of its value against the US&nbsp;dollar since April.

Iran has blamed US&nbsp;sanctions for the currency's fall, saying the measures amount to a "political, psychological and economic" war on Tehran, and accused the United States and Israel of involvement in a deadly attack at a military parade in southwestern Iran this month.

Basra has already been rocked by violent protests seen by experts as a rejection of the Iraqi political establishment that has held on to power -- with the support of the United States and Iran -- despite failing to improve people's lives there.

Protesters in Basra ransacked and torched Iraqi government buildings this month and the Iranian consulate was set alight by demonstrators shouting condemnation of what many see as Iran's sway over Iraq's affairs.

For the first time in several years, mortar shells also landed this month inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses parliament, government buildings and many foreign embassies.

The United States announced on Friday it will effectively close its consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra and relocate diplomatic personnel assigned there following increasing threats from Iran and Iran-backed militia, including rocket fire.

The United States announced on Friday it will effectively close its consulate in the Iraqi city of Basra and relocate diplomatic personnel assigned there following increasing threats from Iran and Iran-backed militia, including rocket fire. The decision adds to mounting tension between the United States and Iran, which is the target of increasing US economic sanctions. In Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said the consulate closure was "unjustified and unnecessary", and said Iran condemned any attack on diplomats or diplomatic locations, according to the ministry's website. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, as he explained the move, renewed a warning that the United States would hold Iran directly responsible for any attacks on Americans and US diplomatic facilities. It followed recent rocket attacks that Pompeo said were directed at the consulate in Basra. US officials said the rockets, however, had not impacted the consulate, which is located on the Basra airport compound. "I have made clear that Iran should understand that the United States will respond promptly and appropriately to any such attacks," Pompeo said in a statement. Pompeo did not explicitly say whether a US response was imminent, however, and other US officials did not disclose potential response options. Still, Pompeo said the threats against US personnel and facilities in Iraq were "increasing and specific" and added that Washington was working with Iraqi forces and US allies to address them. "We look to all international parties interested in peace and stability in Iraq and the region to reinforce our message to Iran regarding the unacceptability of their behavior," he said. In a statement, the US State Department said the consulate was placed on "ordered departure," which technically involves a drawdown in staff. Although some personnel could remain on the diplomatic compound, the move is believed to effectively close the consulate, at least temporarily. The decision came days after US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly, with Trump vowing more sanctions and accusing Iran's leaders of sowing "chaos, death and destruction." Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, speaking at a nearby event in New York on Tuesday, warned "there will indeed be hell to pay" if Iran crosses the United States, its allies or harms US citizens. In May, Trump withdrew the United States from an international deal to put curbs on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for easing sanctions. France, Britain, Germany, China and Russia have stayed in the pact, vowing to save it despite the restoration of US sanctions. The rial has lost 40 percent of its value against the US dollar since April. Iran has blamed US sanctions for the currency's fall, saying the measures amount to a "political, psychological and economic" war on Tehran, and accused the United States and Israel of involvement in a deadly attack at a military parade in southwestern Iran this month. Basra has already been rocked by violent protests seen by experts as a rejection of the Iraqi political establishment that has held on to power -- with the support of the United States and Iran -- despite failing to improve people's lives there. Protesters in Basra ransacked and torched Iraqi government buildings this month and the Iranian consulate was set alight by demonstrators shouting condemnation of what many see as Iran's sway over Iraq's affairs. For the first time in several years, mortar shells also landed this month inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses parliament, government buildings and many foreign embassies.

US pulls diplomats from Iraqi city, citing threats from Iran

The United States shut its consulate in the protest-hit southern Iraqi city of Basra, blaming "indirect fire" by Iran-backed forces and warning its rival of retaliation for any damage.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Friday ordered that all but emergency staff leave Basra, with consular duties to be taken over by the embassy in Baghdad.

Basra has been rocked by weeks of demonstrations by Iraqis protesting unemployment and government inefficiency in the oil-rich south.

Pompeo, who has made rolling back Iranian influence in the region a top priority, blamed militias linked to Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards for "indirect fire" -- which usually means rockets or artillery -- against the US consulate.

"I have advised the government of Iran that the United States will hold Iran directly responsible for any harm to Americans or to our diplomatic facilities in Iraq or elsewhere and whether perpetrated by Iranian forces directly or by associated proxy militias," he said in a statement while in New York to attend the UN General Assembly.

"I have made clear that Iran should understand that the United States will respond promptly and appropriately to any such attacks," he added. 
Ruled by Shiite clerics, Iran has a strong influence in Iraq, especially in the country's Shiite-majority south.

Iran's consulate itself was earlier burned down during the protests, although no one was injured and Tehran quickly opened a new mission.

Iran's foreign ministry earlier called US allegations of fomenting violence in Basra "astonishing, provocative and irresponsible." Speaking at the General Assembly, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani also dismissed the US criticism of involvement in its neighbour, questioning why Washington itself was involved in a country so far away.

Earlier this month three mortar rounds also hit the fortified Green Zone area in Baghdad, home to the US embassy, without causing injuries and with the perpetrators unclear.

Diplomatic security is a key priority for the United States and Pompeo, who as a congressman went on the offensive against former secretary of state Hillary Clinton over a deadly attack on the US consulate in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi

The United States shut its consulate in the protest-hit southern Iraqi city of Basra, blaming "indirect fire" by Iran-backed forces and warning its rival of retaliation for any damage.

The United States shut its consulate in the protest-hit southern Iraqi city of Basra, blaming "indirect fire" by Iran-backed forces and warning its rival of retaliation for any damage. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Friday ordered that all but emergency staff leave Basra, with consular duties to be taken over by the embassy in Baghdad. Basra has been rocked by weeks of demonstrations by Iraqis protesting unemployment and government inefficiency in the oil-rich south. Pompeo, who has made rolling back Iranian influence in the region a top priority, blamed militias linked to Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards for "indirect fire" -- which usually means rockets or artillery -- against the US consulate. "I have advised the government of Iran that the United States will hold Iran directly responsible for any harm to Americans or to our diplomatic facilities in Iraq or elsewhere and whether perpetrated by Iranian forces directly or by associated proxy militias," he said in a statement while in New York to attend the UN General Assembly. "I have made clear that Iran should understand that the United States will respond promptly and appropriately to any such attacks," he added. Ruled by Shiite clerics, Iran has a strong influence in Iraq, especially in the country's Shiite-majority south. Iran's consulate itself was earlier burned down during the protests, although no one was injured and Tehran quickly opened a new mission. Iran's foreign ministry earlier called US allegations of fomenting violence in Basra "astonishing, provocative and irresponsible." Speaking at the General Assembly, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani also dismissed the US criticism of involvement in its neighbour, questioning why Washington itself was involved in a country so far away. Earlier this month three mortar rounds also hit the fortified Green Zone area in Baghdad, home to the US embassy, without causing injuries and with the perpetrators unclear. Diplomatic security is a key priority for the United States and Pompeo, who as a congressman went on the offensive against former secretary of state Hillary Clinton over a deadly attack on the US consulate in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi

US shuts consulate in Iraq's Basra, blames 'indirect fire'

Nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and Iranian-backed militia chief Hadi al-Amiri, who won first and second place respectively in Iraq's May parliamentary election, announced on Tuesday an alliance between their political blocs.

The move announced from the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf is the first serious step towards forming a new government after weeks of negotiations between parties. It comes exactly one month after an election marred by historically low turnout and fraud allegations.

The two Shi'ite figures said they would keep the door open for other winning blocs to join them in forming a new government.

"Our meeting was a very positive one, we met to end the suffering of this nation and of the people. Our new alliance is a nationalist one," Sadr said.

Sadr and Amiri are strange bedfellows.

The cleric, who once led violent campaigns against the U.S. occupation that ended in 2011, has emerged as a nationalist opponent of powerful Shi'ite parties allied with neighbouring Iran and as a champion of the poor.

He backed in the election the Saeroon list composed of his followers, the Communist Party, and other secular candidates.

Amiri, a fluent Farsi speaker, is Iran's closest ally in Iraq, having spent two years in exile there during the era of Saddam Hussein.

The Fatih alliance he led in the election was composed of political groups tied to Iran-backed Shi'ite militias who helped government forces dislodge Islamic State militants from the third of Iraq they seized four years ago.

"Fatih and Saeroon announce forming the nucleus of the largest bloc and call on all winning blocs to participate in this alliance under a government programme agreed upon by all that is suitable to face the challenges, crises, and problems facing Iraq," a Fatih spokesman said in a statement.

The alliance, which together has 101 seats, 64 short of the majority needed to form a government, came hours after Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who's own bloc came third, urged politicians to keep negotiating over government formation despite an impending nationwide manual recount of votes.

Parliament mandated the recount after Abadi said a government report showed there were serious violations.

A few days later a storage site housing half of Baghdad's ballot boxes caught fire, raising tensions and prompting some to call for the election to be repeated.

Abadi said on Tuesday he opposed a repeat, echoing the stances of Sadr and Amiri, and warned that anyone who tried to sabotage the political process would be punished.

He may yet secure a second term as a compromise candidate if he joins his blocs with Sadr and Amiri and manages to win their backing.

"The matter is exclusively in the hands of the judiciary, not politicians. The government and parliament don't have the power to cancel the election," Abadi said of a repeat.

The government report had recommended a recount of 5 percent of votes but the outgoing parliament, in which over half of lawmakers including the speaker lost their seats, instead voted for a nationwide one.

Amiri said on Tuesday he supported only a partial recount.

Abadi called the fire a deliberate act and said the attorney general would bring charges against those who are trying to undermine the political process.

An Iraqi court ordered the arrest of four people accused of setting fire to the storage site. Three of them were policemen and one an employee of the elections commission.

Abadi said a preliminary report had provided evidence of gasoline at multiple areas inside the storage site. It also showed that security cameras had been disabled and no locks had been broken, implying it was carried out by someone with access to the storage site.

Iraqi authorities said the ballot boxes had been rescued but the fire has fuelled fears of violence.

Sadr has warned that certain parties are trying to drag Iraq into a civil war, adding that he would not participate in one.

Abadi thanked Sadr for a disarmament initiative he floated after a weapons cache at his Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City exploded, killing 18 people, and said he hoped the cleric would stick to it.

"I welcome Sayed Moqtada's announcement that his followers commit to not having weapons outside the framework of the state. We consider this good," he said, adding that those responsible for the explosion would be brought to justice.

"What happened in Sadr City is very regrettable, it is a crime. Those responsible will receive their just punishment."

Sadr, who ordered his own separate investigation into the incident, said on Tuesday he had identified the culprit who was now on the run and that he would be brought to justice.

The move announced from the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf is the first serious step towards forming a new government after weeks of negotiations between parties

Nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and Iranian-backed militia chief Hadi al-Amiri, who won first and second place respectively in Iraq's May parliamentary election, announced on Tuesday an alliance between their political blocs. The move announced from the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf is the first serious step towards forming a new government after weeks of negotiations between parties. It comes exactly one month after an election marred by historically low turnout and fraud allegations. The two Shi'ite figures said they would keep the door open for other winning blocs to join them in forming a new government. "Our meeting was a very positive one, we met to end the suffering of this nation and of the people. Our new alliance is a nationalist one," Sadr said. Sadr and Amiri are strange bedfellows. The cleric, who once led violent campaigns against the U.S. occupation that ended in 2011, has emerged as a nationalist opponent of powerful Shi'ite parties allied with neighbouring Iran and as a champion of the poor. He backed in the election the Saeroon list composed of his followers, the Communist Party, and other secular candidates. Amiri, a fluent Farsi speaker, is Iran's closest ally in Iraq, having spent two years in exile there during the era of Saddam Hussein. The Fatih alliance he led in the election was composed of political groups tied to Iran-backed Shi'ite militias who helped government forces dislodge Islamic State militants from the third of Iraq they seized four years ago. "Fatih and Saeroon announce forming the nucleus of the largest bloc and call on all winning blocs to participate in this alliance under a government programme agreed upon by all that is suitable to face the challenges, crises, and problems facing Iraq," a Fatih spokesman said in a statement. The alliance, which together has 101 seats, 64 short of the majority needed to form a government, came hours after Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who's own bloc came third, urged politicians to keep negotiating over government formation despite an impending nationwide manual recount of votes. Parliament mandated the recount after Abadi said a government report showed there were serious violations. A few days later a storage site housing half of Baghdad's ballot boxes caught fire, raising tensions and prompting some to call for the election to be repeated. Abadi said on Tuesday he opposed a repeat, echoing the stances of Sadr and Amiri, and warned that anyone who tried to sabotage the political process would be punished. He may yet secure a second term as a compromise candidate if he joins his blocs with Sadr and Amiri and manages to win their backing. "The matter is exclusively in the hands of the judiciary, not politicians. The government and parliament don't have the power to cancel the election," Abadi said of a repeat. The government report had recommended a recount of 5 percent of votes but the outgoing parliament, in which over half of lawmakers including the speaker lost their seats, instead voted for a nationwide one. Amiri said on Tuesday he supported only a partial recount. Abadi called the fire a deliberate act and said the attorney general would bring charges against those who are trying to undermine the political process. An Iraqi court ordered the arrest of four people accused of setting fire to the storage site. Three of them were policemen and one an employee of the elections commission. Abadi said a preliminary report had provided evidence of gasoline at multiple areas inside the storage site. It also showed that security cameras had been disabled and no locks had been broken, implying it was carried out by someone with access to the storage site. Iraqi authorities said the ballot boxes had been rescued but the fire has fuelled fears of violence. Sadr has warned that certain parties are trying to drag Iraq into a civil war, adding that he would not participate in one. Abadi thanked Sadr for a disarmament initiative he floated after a weapons cache at his Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City exploded, killing 18 people, and said he hoped the cleric would stick to it. "I welcome Sayed Moqtada's announcement that his followers commit to not having weapons outside the framework of the state. We consider this good," he said, adding that those responsible for the explosion would be brought to justice. "What happened in Sadr City is very regrettable, it is a crime. Those responsible will receive their just punishment." Sadr, who ordered his own separate investigation into the incident, said on Tuesday he had identified the culprit who was now on the run and that he would be brought to justice.

Iraq's Sadr and Amiri announce political alliance

Iraqi nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and Iranian-backed militia chief Hadi al-Amiri were set to lead talks&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;to form a government in Baghdad after announcing an alliance of their political blocs.

Sadr and Amiri's groupings won first and second place respectively in May's election, which has been beset by allegations of fraud and raised fears of bloodshed among Shi'ite paramilitary groups.

They announced the alliance in the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf, an apparent attempt to project unity among leaders of the Muslim sect that has dominated since the fall of Saddam Hussein.

A week ago, am explosion killed at least 18 people and wounded more than 90 in Sadr's Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City district, in what the interior ministry called "a terrorist aggression on civilians".

State television reported&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;that the Supreme Judicial Council had issued arrest warrants for 20 people in connection with the blast.

The Sadr-Amiri pact could ease fears of violence, which some have said could even spiral into intra-Shi'ite civil war.

Amiri, widely described as Tehran's man in Iraq, is one of the most powerful figures in the country.

Iraq, a key ally of the United States and major oil producer, has 150,000 heavily armed mostly Shi'ite paramilitary fighters operating alongside state forces - some of them more loyal to their commanders and Iran than to the Iraqi state.

Both Sadr and Iran seem to be taking a pragmatic approach as Iran seeks to maintain its deep influence in its most important Arab ally at a time when its wider Middle East interests are under threat.

Not only has US&nbsp;President Donald Trump pulled out of a global nuclear deal with Tehran and then embraced North Korea, increasing Iran's isolation Tehran's allies in Yemen are also facing a major offensive from a Saudi-led coalition that could mark a turning point in the war.

Sadr, who led violent campaigns against the US&nbsp;occupation that ended in 2011, has emerged as a nationalist opponent of powerful Shi’ite parties allied with neighbouring Iran, and as a champion of the poor.

Tehran has skilfully manipulated Iraqi politics in the past, and the cleric has to tread carefully.

But Sadr, who derives much of his legitimacy from his revered father, Grand Ayatollah Muhammad Sadiq Sadr, assassinated in 1999 by Saddam's agents, is a formidable and unpredictable operator.

He also has street power, with a track record of mobilising tens of thousands of supporters to protest against opponents and government policies.

In the 2010 election, Vice President Ayad Allawi’s group won the largest number of seats, albeit with a narrow margin, but he was prevented from becoming prime minister.

He blamed Tehran, which manoeuvred Nuri al-Maliki into power, and Sadr helped to form a national unity government.

During the American occupation, Tehran was accused of arming Sadr's Mehdi Army militia with sophisticated bombs used in attacks on US-led coalition forces.

Tehran has accommodated him in the past he went into self-imposed exile in Iran in 2007.

Sadr and Amiri's groupings won first and second place respectively in May's election

Iraqi nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and Iranian-backed militia chief Hadi al-Amiri were set to lead talks on Wednesday to form a government in Baghdad after announcing an alliance of their political blocs. Sadr and Amiri's groupings won first and second place respectively in May's election, which has been beset by allegations of fraud and raised fears of bloodshed among Shi'ite paramilitary groups. They announced the alliance in the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf, an apparent attempt to project unity among leaders of the Muslim sect that has dominated since the fall of Saddam Hussein. A week ago, am explosion killed at least 18 people and wounded more than 90 in Sadr's Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City district, in what the interior ministry called "a terrorist aggression on civilians". State television reported on Wednesday that the Supreme Judicial Council had issued arrest warrants for 20 people in connection with the blast. The Sadr-Amiri pact could ease fears of violence, which some have said could even spiral into intra-Shi'ite civil war. Amiri, widely described as Tehran's man in Iraq, is one of the most powerful figures in the country. Iraq, a key ally of the United States and major oil producer, has 150,000 heavily armed mostly Shi'ite paramilitary fighters operating alongside state forces - some of them more loyal to their commanders and Iran than to the Iraqi state. Both Sadr and Iran seem to be taking a pragmatic approach as Iran seeks to maintain its deep influence in its most important Arab ally at a time when its wider Middle East interests are under threat. Not only has US President Donald Trump pulled out of a global nuclear deal with Tehran and then embraced North Korea, increasing Iran's isolation Tehran's allies in Yemen are also facing a major offensive from a Saudi-led coalition that could mark a turning point in the war. Sadr, who led violent campaigns against the US occupation that ended in 2011, has emerged as a nationalist opponent of powerful Shi’ite parties allied with neighbouring Iran, and as a champion of the poor. Tehran has skilfully manipulated Iraqi politics in the past, and the cleric has to tread carefully. But Sadr, who derives much of his legitimacy from his revered father, Grand Ayatollah Muhammad Sadiq Sadr, assassinated in 1999 by Saddam's agents, is a formidable and unpredictable operator. He also has street power, with a track record of mobilising tens of thousands of supporters to protest against opponents and government policies. In the 2010 election, Vice President Ayad Allawi’s group won the largest number of seats, albeit with a narrow margin, but he was prevented from becoming prime minister. He blamed Tehran, which manoeuvred Nuri al-Maliki into power, and Sadr helped to form a national unity government. During the American occupation, Tehran was accused of arming Sadr's Mehdi Army militia with sophisticated bombs used in attacks on US-led coalition forces. Tehran has accommodated him in the past he went into self-imposed exile in Iran in 2007.

Iraq's Sadr and Amiri set to lead talks on new government

The number of Iraqi civilians killed in acts of violence since the beginning of the year has significantly dropped, largely due to the defeat of the Islamic State group, United Nations and a monitor have said.

Reports released this week by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the Iraq Body Count database there was an 80 per cent drop in civilian deaths in the first five months of 2018 compared to the same period last year.

UNAMI said 477 Iraqis were killed in acts of violence since the beginning of the year compared to 2,014 in the first five months of 2017, a drop of 76.3 per cent.

The number of wounded during the same period dropped from 2,977 to 939, a decrease of 68.4 per cent, it said.&nbsp

The London-based Iraq Body Count, which tracks violent deaths in the country, gave similar figures.&nbsp

The number of civilian deaths from political and religious violence dropped from 7,708 in the first five months of 2017 to 1,818 during the same period in 2018 -- a decrease of 76.4 per cent.

In May Iraq held parliamentary elections without any major security incident, a first since the 2003 US-led invasion and ouster of dictator Saddam Hussein.

And so far, the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, which started in mid-May, has gone on without major violence, unlike previous years when it was rocked by deadly attacks.

Iraq claimed victory over IS in December after pushing the jihadists out of their final holdouts along the border with Syria.&nbsp

But the group retains the capacity to strike despite losing control of vast swathes of Iraqi territory it seized in 2014 and still clings to pockets of desert in war-torn Syria.

The number of civilian deaths from political and religious violence dropped from 7,708 in the first five months of 2017 to 1,818 during the same period in 2018

The number of Iraqi civilians killed in acts of violence since the beginning of the year has significantly dropped, largely due to the defeat of the Islamic State group, United Nations and a monitor have said. Reports released this week by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the Iraq Body Count database there was an 80 per cent drop in civilian deaths in the first five months of 2018 compared to the same period last year. UNAMI said 477 Iraqis were killed in acts of violence since the beginning of the year compared to 2,014 in the first five months of 2017, a drop of 76.3 per cent. The number of wounded during the same period dropped from 2,977 to 939, a decrease of 68.4 per cent, it said. The London-based Iraq Body Count, which tracks violent deaths in the country, gave similar figures. The number of civilian deaths from political and religious violence dropped from 7,708 in the first five months of 2017 to 1,818 during the same period in 2018 -- a decrease of 76.4 per cent. In May Iraq held parliamentary elections without any major security incident, a first since the 2003 US-led invasion and ouster of dictator Saddam Hussein. And so far, the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, which started in mid-May, has gone on without major violence, unlike previous years when it was rocked by deadly attacks. Iraq claimed victory over IS in December after pushing the jihadists out of their final holdouts along the border with Syria. But the group retains the capacity to strike despite losing control of vast swathes of Iraqi territory it seized in 2014 and still clings to pockets of desert in war-torn Syria.

Iraq's civilian death toll drops by nearly 80%: Reports

US military operations around the world claimed the lives of 500 civilians in 2017, according to a Pentagon report released on Friday.

According to the report, the civilians were killed in a total of six countries which included Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

In the report, it has been pointed out that Pentagon had no credible reports of civilian casualties from Libya and Somalia. Also, the Pentagon is yet to assess 450 civilian-casualty reports in Iraq and Syria, due to the paucity of resources, thereby indicating a possibility for the final tally to be higher.

It was the first time ever Pentagon released figures for civilian casualties caused by US&nbsp;military operations.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said about 499 civilians were killed and about 169 civilians injured, without providing a breakdown of deaths and injuries per country or further details about the victims.

It also said it had yet to assess 450 civilian-casualty reports in Iraq and Syria, due to limited resources, indicating the final tally could be higher.

According to the report, the civilians were killed in a total of six countries which included Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Yemen

US military operations around the world claimed the lives of 500 civilians in 2017, according to a Pentagon report released on Friday. According to the report, the civilians were killed in a total of six countries which included Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Yemen. In the report, it has been pointed out that Pentagon had no credible reports of civilian casualties from Libya and Somalia. Also, the Pentagon is yet to assess 450 civilian-casualty reports in Iraq and Syria, due to the paucity of resources, thereby indicating a possibility for the final tally to be higher. It was the first time ever Pentagon released figures for civilian casualties caused by US military operations. The Pentagon said about 499 civilians were killed and about 169 civilians injured, without providing a breakdown of deaths and injuries per country or further details about the victims. It also said it had yet to assess 450 civilian-casualty reports in Iraq and Syria, due to limited resources, indicating the final tally could be higher.

US military operations killed 500 civilians globally in 2017: Pentagon

An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced a French woman to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of putting pressure on Baghdad to prevent the return of jihadists to France.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France.

But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terrorist law and on Sunday she was found guilty of belonging to IS.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

"I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added.

Previosuly, Iraq sentenced 19 Russian women to life in prison for joining the Islamic State group, the latest in a series of heavy verdicts against foreign women linked to the jihadists.

The head of Baghdad’s Central Criminal Court, which deals with terrorism cases, said the women were found guilty of “joining and supporting IS“, according to an AFP journalist at the hearing. Six women from Azerbaijan and four from Tajikistan were also condemned to life in prison Sunday on the same charge.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France

An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced a French woman to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of putting pressure on Baghdad to prevent the return of jihadists to France. Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France. But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terrorist law and on Sunday she was found guilty of belonging to IS. "I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French. "My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said. "I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added. Previosuly, Iraq sentenced 19 Russian women to life in prison for joining the Islamic State group, the latest in a series of heavy verdicts against foreign women linked to the jihadists. The head of Baghdad’s Central Criminal Court, which deals with terrorism cases, said the women were found guilty of “joining and supporting IS“, according to an AFP journalist at the hearing. Six women from Azerbaijan and four from Tajikistan were also condemned to life in prison Sunday on the same charge.

Iraq court sentences French woman to life for IS membership

A war monitor said buses evacuated Islamic State fighters from an enclave south of Damascus on Sunday in a withdrawal deal, though state media denied the report and said the Syrian army was fighting to finish off the insurgents.

The recovery of the enclave south of Damascus will mark another milestone in President Bashar al-Assa's war effort, crushing the last besieged rebel enclave in western Syria.

Swathes of territory at the borders with Iraq, Turkey and Jordan, however, remain outside state control.

Syrian government forces and their allies have been battling to recover the enclave south of Damascus since defeating rebels in eastern Ghouta, also near the capital, in April.

The area is centred around the al-Hajar al-Aswad district and the adjoining Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk.

In a live broadcast, a reporter with Syrian state TV said the Syrian army operations in the Hajar al-Aswad area were nearing their end and insurgent lines were collapsing as columns of smoke rose from the area behind him.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights earlier said buses had entered the enclave after midnight to take out fighters and their families. They had left towards the Syrian Badia, a sparsely populated expanse of territory east of the capital that extends to the border with Jordan and Iraq, it said.&nbsp

Islamic State militants had torched their offices in the Yarmouk enclave, the Observatory said.

Negotiated withdrawals have been a common feature of the Syrian war in recent years as the government, aided by the Russian military and Iran-backed forces, has steadily clawed back territory.

The rebels have mostly been given safe passage to northwestern Syria. In the last two months alone, the United Nations says 110,000 people have been evacuated to northwestern Syria and rebel-held areas north of Aleppo.

The opposition has called it a policy of forced displacement amounting to demographic change to drive out Assad's opponents. The Syrian government has said nobody is forced to leave and those who stay must accept state rule.

While Assad has vowed to win back "every inch" of Syria, the map of the conflict suggests a more complicated time ahead from now on.&nbsp

The US&nbspmilitary is in much of the east and northeast, which is controlled by Kurdish groups that want autonomy from Damascus. It has used force to defend the territory from pro-Assad forces.

Turkey has sent forces into the northwest to counter those same Kurdish groups, carving out a buffer zone where anti-Assad rebels have regrouped.

In the southwest, where rebels hold territory at the Israeli and Jordanian border, Assad faces the risk of conflict with Israel, which wants his Iranian-backed allies kept well away from the frontier and has mounted air strikes in Syria.&nbsp

The recovery of the enclave south of Damascus will mark another milestone in President Bashar al-Assad's war effort, crushing the last besieged rebel enclave in western Syria

A war monitor said buses evacuated Islamic State fighters from an enclave south of Damascus on Sunday in a withdrawal deal, though state media denied the report and said the Syrian army was fighting to finish off the insurgents. The recovery of the enclave south of Damascus will mark another milestone in President Bashar al-Assa's war effort, crushing the last besieged rebel enclave in western Syria. Swathes of territory at the borders with Iraq, Turkey and Jordan, however, remain outside state control. Syrian government forces and their allies have been battling to recover the enclave south of Damascus since defeating rebels in eastern Ghouta, also near the capital, in April. The area is centred around the al-Hajar al-Aswad district and the adjoining Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk. In a live broadcast, a reporter with Syrian state TV said the Syrian army operations in the Hajar al-Aswad area were nearing their end and insurgent lines were collapsing as columns of smoke rose from the area behind him. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights earlier said buses had entered the enclave after midnight to take out fighters and their families. They had left towards the Syrian Badia, a sparsely populated expanse of territory east of the capital that extends to the border with Jordan and Iraq, it said. Islamic State militants had torched their offices in the Yarmouk enclave, the Observatory said. Negotiated withdrawals have been a common feature of the Syrian war in recent years as the government, aided by the Russian military and Iran-backed forces, has steadily clawed back territory. The rebels have mostly been given safe passage to northwestern Syria. In the last two months alone, the United Nations says 110,000 people have been evacuated to northwestern Syria and rebel-held areas north of Aleppo. The opposition has called it a policy of forced displacement amounting to demographic change to drive out Assad's opponents. The Syrian government has said nobody is forced to leave and those who stay must accept state rule. While Assad has vowed to win back "every inch" of Syria, the map of the conflict suggests a more complicated time ahead from now on. The US&nbspmilitary is in much of the east and northeast, which is controlled by Kurdish groups that want autonomy from Damascus. It has used force to defend the territory from pro-Assad forces. Turkey has sent forces into the northwest to counter those same Kurdish groups, carving out a buffer zone where anti-Assad rebels have regrouped. In the southwest, where rebels hold territory at the Israeli and Jordanian border, Assad faces the risk of conflict with Israel, which wants his Iranian-backed allies kept well away from the frontier and has mounted air strikes in Syria.

Syrian monitor says insurgents quit enclave, state media denies it

Populist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, a long-time adversary of the United States, has all but won Iraq's parliamentary election, the electoral commission said, in a surprise turn of fortune for the Shi'ite leader.

In the first election since Islamic State was defeated in the country, Iran-backed Shi'ite militia chief Hadi al-Amiri's bloc was in second place, while Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, once seen as the front-runner, trailed in third.

The preliminary results were based on a count of more than 91 percent of the votes cast in 16 of Iraq's 18 provinces.

Sadr's bloc did not run in the remaining two provinces, Kurdish Dohuk and the ethnically-mixed oil province of Kirkuk. The results there, which may be delayed due to tensions between local parties, will not affect Sadr's standing.

Unlike Abadi, a rare ally of both the United States and Iran, Sadr is an opponent of both countries, which have wielded influence in Iraq since a U.S.-led invasion toppled Sunni dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003 and thrust the Shi'ite majority into power.

Sadr has led two uprisings against US&nbspforces in Iraq and is one of the few Shi'ite leaders to distance himself from Iran.

Despite the election setback, Abadi might still be granted a second term in office by parliament and on Monday he called on all political blocs to respect the results and suggested he was willing to work with Sadr to form a government.

"We are ready to work and cooperate in forming the strongest government for Iraq, free of corruption," Abadi said in a live televised address. Corruption has been at the top of Sadr's agenda for several years.

Projecting himself as an Iraqi nationalist, Sadr has a zealous following among the young, poor and dispossessed, but he had been sidelined by influential Iran-backed figures.

He cannot become prime minister as he did not run in the election, though his apparent victory puts him in a position to pick someone for the job.

But even then, his bloc might not necessarily form the next government. Whoever wins the most seats must negotiate a coalition government in order to have a majority in parliament. The government should be formed within 90 days of the official results.

Saturday's election is the first since the defeat of Islamic State last year. The group overran a third of Iraq in 2014.

Turnout was 44.52 percent with 92 percent of votes counted, the Independent High Electoral Commission said, the lowest participation rate in Iraq's post-Saddam history. Full results are due to be officially announced later on Monday.

Election calculus

Sadr and Amiri both came in first in four of the 10 provinces where votes were counted, but the cleric's bloc won significantly more votes in the capital, Baghdad, which has the highest number of seats.

A document provided to Reuters by a candidate in Baghdad that was also circulating among journalists and analysts showed results from all 18 provinces.

Reuters could not independently verify the document's authenticity but the results in it for the 16 announced provinces were in line with those announced by the commission.

Reuters calculations based on the document showed Sadr had won the nationwide popular vote with over 1.3 million votes and gained around 54 of parliament's 329 seats.

He was followed by Amiri with more than 1.2 million votes, translating into around 47 seats, and Abadi with more than 1 million votes and about 42 seats. Former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a close ally of Iran like Amiri, came in fourth with around 25 seats.

The remaining uncounted ballots, mostly from Iraqis abroad, the security services, and internally displaced people voting in camps and elsewhere, might change the final seat tallies but only marginally.

Winning the largest number of seats does not automatically guarantee that Sadr will be able to hand-pick a prime minister. The other winning blocs would have to agree on the nomination.

In a 2010 election, Vice President Ayad Allawi's group won the largest number of seats, albeit with a narrow margin, but he was blocked from becoming premier for which he blamed Tehran.

New government

A similar fate could befall Sadr. Iran has publicly stated it will not allow his bloc to govern.

"We will not allow liberals and communists to govern in Iraq," Ali Akbar Velayati, top adviser to the Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said in February.

His statement, which sparked criticism by Iraqi figures, was referring to the electoral alliance between Sadr, the Iraqi Communist Party and other secular groups which joined protests organised by Sadr in 2016 to press the government to see through a move to stem endemic corruption.

Iraqi Communist Party Secretary General Raed Fahmy told Reuters the vote in favour of Sadr's list, backed by his group, "is a clear message that we must have balanced relations with all (countries) based on non-interference in Iraq's internal affairs".

"Everybody is welcome to provide support to Iraq, but not at the expense of its sovereignty and independence," he added.

During the campaign, frustrated Iraqis of all shades complained about their political elite's systematic patronage, bad governance and corruption, saying they did not receive any benefits of their country's oil wealth.

"This vote is a clear message that the people want to change the system of governance that has produced corruption and weakened state institutions," said Fahmy.

Iraq has been ranked among the world's most corrupt countries, with high unemployment, poverty, weak public institutions and crumbling infrastructure despite high oil revenues for many years. Endemic corruption has eaten at the government's financial resources.

Fahmy told his party's website that Abadi's bloc was "closer" to Sadr's than others.

Balancing act

Sadr derives much of his authority from his family. His father, highly respected Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Sadeq al-Sadr, was killed in 1999 for defying Saddam Hussein. His father's cousin, Mohammed Baqir al-Sadr, was killed by Saddam in 1980.

Celebrations erupted on the streets of Baghdad after the commission's announcement, with thousands of Sadr's supporters singing, chanting, dancing and setting off fireworks while carrying his picture and waving Iraqi flags.

Many chanted "Iran out".

Whoever wins the election will have to contend with the fallout from US&nbspPresident Donald Trump's decision to quit the Iran nuclear deal, a move Iraqis fear could turn their country into a theatre of conflict between Washington and Tehran.

Abadi, a British-educated engineer, came to power four years ago after Islamic State seized a third of Iraq's territory. He received US&nbspmilitary support that was helped by the victory of Iraqi security forces over the Sunni militant group and gave free rein to Iran to back Shi'ite militias fighting on the same side.

If parliament does grant him a second term, Abadi will remain under pressure to maintain the balancing act between Washington and Tehran.

The preliminary results were based on a count of more than 91 percent of the votes cast in 16 of Iraq's 18 provinces

Populist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, a long-time adversary of the United States, has all but won Iraq's parliamentary election, the electoral commission said, in a surprise turn of fortune for the Shi'ite leader. In the first election since Islamic State was defeated in the country, Iran-backed Shi'ite militia chief Hadi al-Amiri's bloc was in second place, while Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, once seen as the front-runner, trailed in third. The preliminary results were based on a count of more than 91 percent of the votes cast in 16 of Iraq's 18 provinces. Sadr's bloc did not run in the remaining two provinces, Kurdish Dohuk and the ethnically-mixed oil province of Kirkuk. The results there, which may be delayed due to tensions between local parties, will not affect Sadr's standing. Unlike Abadi, a rare ally of both the United States and Iran, Sadr is an opponent of both countries, which have wielded influence in Iraq since a U.S.-led invasion toppled Sunni dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003 and thrust the Shi'ite majority into power. Sadr has led two uprisings against US&nbspforces in Iraq and is one of the few Shi'ite leaders to distance himself from Iran. Despite the election setback, Abadi might still be granted a second term in office by parliament and on Monday he called on all political blocs to respect the results and suggested he was willing to work with Sadr to form a government. "We are ready to work and cooperate in forming the strongest government for Iraq, free of corruption," Abadi said in a live televised address. Corruption has been at the top of Sadr's agenda for several years. Projecting himself as an Iraqi nationalist, Sadr has a zealous following among the young, poor and dispossessed, but he had been sidelined by influential Iran-backed figures. He cannot become prime minister as he did not run in the election, though his apparent victory puts him in a position to pick someone for the job. But even then, his bloc might not necessarily form the next government. Whoever wins the most seats must negotiate a coalition government in order to have a majority in parliament. The government should be formed within 90 days of the official results. Saturday's election is the first since the defeat of Islamic State last year. The group overran a third of Iraq in 2014. Turnout was 44.52 percent with 92 percent of votes counted, the Independent High Electoral Commission said, the lowest participation rate in Iraq's post-Saddam history. Full results are due to be officially announced later on Monday. Election calculus Sadr and Amiri both came in first in four of the 10 provinces where votes were counted, but the cleric's bloc won significantly more votes in the capital, Baghdad, which has the highest number of seats. A document provided to Reuters by a candidate in Baghdad that was also circulating among journalists and analysts showed results from all 18 provinces. Reuters could not independently verify the document's authenticity but the results in it for the 16 announced provinces were in line with those announced by the commission. Reuters calculations based on the document showed Sadr had won the nationwide popular vote with over 1.3 million votes and gained around 54 of parliament's 329 seats. He was followed by Amiri with more than 1.2 million votes, translating into around 47 seats, and Abadi with more than 1 million votes and about 42 seats. Former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a close ally of Iran like Amiri, came in fourth with around 25 seats. The remaining uncounted ballots, mostly from Iraqis abroad, the security services, and internally displaced people voting in camps and elsewhere, might change the final seat tallies but only marginally. Winning the largest number of seats does not automatically guarantee that Sadr will be able to hand-pick a prime minister. The other winning blocs would have to agree on the nomination. In a 2010 election, Vice President Ayad Allawi's group won the largest number of seats, albeit with a narrow margin, but he was blocked from becoming premier for which he blamed Tehran. New government A similar fate could befall Sadr. Iran has publicly stated it will not allow his bloc to govern. "We will not allow liberals and communists to govern in Iraq," Ali Akbar Velayati, top adviser to the Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said in February. His statement, which sparked criticism by Iraqi figures, was referring to the electoral alliance between Sadr, the Iraqi Communist Party and other secular groups which joined protests organised by Sadr in 2016 to press the government to see through a move to stem endemic corruption. Iraqi Communist Party Secretary General Raed Fahmy told Reuters the vote in favour of Sadr's list, backed by his group, "is a clear message that we must have balanced relations with all (countries) based on non-interference in Iraq's internal affairs". "Everybody is welcome to provide support to Iraq, but not at the expense of its sovereignty and independence," he added. During the campaign, frustrated Iraqis of all shades complained about their political elite's systematic patronage, bad governance and corruption, saying they did not receive any benefits of their country's oil wealth. "This vote is a clear message that the people want to change the system of governance that has produced corruption and weakened state institutions," said Fahmy. Iraq has been ranked among the world's most corrupt countries, with high unemployment, poverty, weak public institutions and crumbling infrastructure despite high oil revenues for many years. Endemic corruption has eaten at the government's financial resources. Fahmy told his party's website that Abadi's bloc was "closer" to Sadr's than others. Balancing act Sadr derives much of his authority from his family. His father, highly respected Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Sadeq al-Sadr, was killed in 1999 for defying Saddam Hussein. His father's cousin, Mohammed Baqir al-Sadr, was killed by Saddam in 1980. Celebrations erupted on the streets of Baghdad after the commission's announcement, with thousands of Sadr's supporters singing, chanting, dancing and setting off fireworks while carrying his picture and waving Iraqi flags. Many chanted "Iran out". Whoever wins the election will have to contend with the fallout from US&nbspPresident Donald Trump's decision to quit the Iran nuclear deal, a move Iraqis fear could turn their country into a theatre of conflict between Washington and Tehran. Abadi, a British-educated engineer, came to power four years ago after Islamic State seized a third of Iraq's territory. He received US&nbspmilitary support that was helped by the victory of Iraqi security forces over the Sunni militant group and gave free rein to Iran to back Shi'ite militias fighting on the same side. If parliament does grant him a second term, Abadi will remain under pressure to maintain the balancing act between Washington and Tehran.

Populist cleric Sadr all but wins Iraq election

Moqtada al-Sadr, a firebrand Shi'ite cleric who led uprisings against U.S. troops, appeared to make a remarkable comeback in Iraq's parliamentary election after being sidelined for years by Iranian-backed rivals.

Although Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's list of candidates were leading the field after Saturday's vote, Sadr's alliance was in second place, an election commission source and a security official told Reuters, citing unofficial results.

Sadr made his name leading two uprisings against U.S. forces in Iraq, drawing support from poor neighbourhoods of Baghdad and other cities. Washington called the Mehdi Army, the Shi'ite militia loyal to Sadr, the biggest threat to Iraq's security.

As top politicians in suits voted at a fancy Baghdad hotel on Saturday in the first election since Islamic State militants were defeated, Sadr in trademark turban and robe was shown walking to a polling station in poor district to cast his ballot.

The television footage of Sadr voting reinforced his image as a maverick who appeals to Iraq's dispossessed.

If initial results are confirmed, British-educated Abadi, a Shi'ite who as prime minister nurtured ties with Washington and Tehran, may have to form a coalition with Sadr, who fought the Americans and is one of the few Shi'ite leaders to keep a distance with Iran, which has powerful influence in Iraq.

Sadr has sought to broaden his regional support. Last year, he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, a major U.S. regional ally that is staunchly opposed to Iran.

Sadr, who was shown sipping juice in a palace in the Saudi city of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast, shares an interest in countering Iranian influence in Iraq.

Sadr rose to prominence in the unrest and chaos that erupted in Iraq after U.S. troops toppled Saddam Hussein's rule in 2003. Armed mostly with AK-47 assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades, Sadr's militia challenged the world's most powerful military as it tried to stabilise Iraq.

Sadr derives much of his authority from his family. His father, highly respected Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Sadeq al-Sadr, was murdered in 1999 for defying Saddam Hussein. His father's cousin, Mohammed Baqir, was killed by Saddam in 1980.

U.S. officials and Sunni Arab leaders accused the Mehdi Army of being behind many sectarian killings that ravaged Iraq. The U.S. occupation authority issued an arrest warrant for him for his alleged role in the murder of a rival cleric.

Sadr has disavowed violence against fellow Iraqis and in 2008 ordered his militia to become a humanitarian group.

He can still mobilise thousands of supporters to press his agenda, and he formed an unlikely alliance with communists and other independent secular supporters to demand the formation of a government of independent technocrats to end corruption.

"We call on the Iraqi people to stage a white revolution, everybody must cast his ballot, nobody should abstain from voting, it is the last chance for change," Sadr said in a televised speech in April.

His list is known as "Sairoon" in Arabic, or On The Move.

"Our program is about building effective corruption-free state institutions, rehabilitating and expanding infrastructures, providing essential services to the poor, like health and education," said Jumah Bahadily, a lawmaker who belongs to the Sadrist movement.

Sadr's support extends to Iraq's crumbling second city of Basra, in the Shi'ite heartland in the south of the country and near the OPEC producer's main oilfields.

"We defeated the corrupt people which have ruled Iraq since 2003," said Mohanad Sahib, a 38-year-old engineer in Basra, who voted for Sairoon. "They are from the people."

Some voters said a call by the influential Shi'ite cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, for voters to reject corrupt candidates was a tacit signal to back Sairoon.

"It's correct he didn't mention them directly but he meant this," said Mohamed Matar, who also supported Sadr's list.

But more mainstream politicians have sought to undermine support for Sadr in the past. Former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a close ally of Iran, ordered a crack down on the Mehdi Army in Basra in 2008, calling its members ''outlaws''. Dozens were killed.

Maliki's Dawa party has also been fielding candidates in this election.

Although Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's list of candidates were leading the field after Saturday's vote, Sadr's alliance was in second place

Moqtada al-Sadr, a firebrand Shi'ite cleric who led uprisings against U.S. troops, appeared to make a remarkable comeback in Iraq's parliamentary election after being sidelined for years by Iranian-backed rivals. Although Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's list of candidates were leading the field after Saturday's vote, Sadr's alliance was in second place, an election commission source and a security official told Reuters, citing unofficial results. Sadr made his name leading two uprisings against U.S. forces in Iraq, drawing support from poor neighbourhoods of Baghdad and other cities. Washington called the Mehdi Army, the Shi'ite militia loyal to Sadr, the biggest threat to Iraq's security. As top politicians in suits voted at a fancy Baghdad hotel on Saturday in the first election since Islamic State militants were defeated, Sadr in trademark turban and robe was shown walking to a polling station in poor district to cast his ballot. The television footage of Sadr voting reinforced his image as a maverick who appeals to Iraq's dispossessed. If initial results are confirmed, British-educated Abadi, a Shi'ite who as prime minister nurtured ties with Washington and Tehran, may have to form a coalition with Sadr, who fought the Americans and is one of the few Shi'ite leaders to keep a distance with Iran, which has powerful influence in Iraq. Sadr has sought to broaden his regional support. Last year, he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, a major U.S. regional ally that is staunchly opposed to Iran. Sadr, who was shown sipping juice in a palace in the Saudi city of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast, shares an interest in countering Iranian influence in Iraq. Sadr rose to prominence in the unrest and chaos that erupted in Iraq after U.S. troops toppled Saddam Hussein's rule in 2003. Armed mostly with AK-47 assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades, Sadr's militia challenged the world's most powerful military as it tried to stabilise Iraq. Sadr derives much of his authority from his family. His father, highly respected Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Sadeq al-Sadr, was murdered in 1999 for defying Saddam Hussein. His father's cousin, Mohammed Baqir, was killed by Saddam in 1980. U.S. officials and Sunni Arab leaders accused the Mehdi Army of being behind many sectarian killings that ravaged Iraq. The U.S. occupation authority issued an arrest warrant for him for his alleged role in the murder of a rival cleric. Sadr has disavowed violence against fellow Iraqis and in 2008 ordered his militia to become a humanitarian group. He can still mobilise thousands of supporters to press his agenda, and he formed an unlikely alliance with communists and other independent secular supporters to demand the formation of a government of independent technocrats to end corruption. "We call on the Iraqi people to stage a white revolution, everybody must cast his ballot, nobody should abstain from voting, it is the last chance for change," Sadr said in a televised speech in April. His list is known as "Sairoon" in Arabic, or On The Move. "Our program is about building effective corruption-free state institutions, rehabilitating and expanding infrastructures, providing essential services to the poor, like health and education," said Jumah Bahadily, a lawmaker who belongs to the Sadrist movement. Sadr's support extends to Iraq's crumbling second city of Basra, in the Shi'ite heartland in the south of the country and near the OPEC producer's main oilfields. "We defeated the corrupt people which have ruled Iraq since 2003," said Mohanad Sahib, a 38-year-old engineer in Basra, who voted for Sairoon. "They are from the people." Some voters said a call by the influential Shi'ite cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, for voters to reject corrupt candidates was a tacit signal to back Sairoon. "It's correct he didn't mention them directly but he meant this," said Mohamed Matar, who also supported Sadr's list. But more mainstream politicians have sought to undermine support for Sadr in the past. Former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a close ally of Iran, ordered a crack down on the Mehdi Army in Basra in 2008, calling its members ''outlaws''. Dozens were killed. Maliki's Dawa party has also been fielding candidates in this election.

Iraq's firebrand cleric Sadr makes comeback in vote, initial results suggest

Iraqis began voting in the first parliamentary election on Saturday since defeating Islamic State, but few people expect its new leaders to deliver the stability and economic prosperity that have long been promised.

The oil producer has struggled to find a formula for stability since a U.S.-led invasion toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, and many&nbsp;Iraqis have lost faith in their politicians.

Whoever the new parliament chooses as prime minister will face an array of challenges after a three-year war against Islamic State which cost the country about $100 billion.

Much of the northern city of Mosul was reduced to rubble in fighting to oust Islamic State, and it will require billions of dollars to rebuild. The economy is stagnant.

Sectarian tensions, which erupted into civil war in 2006-2007, are still a major security threat. AndIraq's two main backers, Washington and Tehran, are at loggerheads.

The three main ethnic and religious groups -- the majority Shi'ite Arabs and the Sunni Arabs and Kurds -- have been at odds for decades, and the sectarian divisions remain as deep as ever.

Reuters reporters saw polling stations open in Baghdad and other cities.

"I will participate but I will mark an 'X' on my ballot. There is no security, no jobs, no services. Candidates are just looking to line up their pockets, not to help people," said Jamal Mowasawi, a 61-year-old butcher.

The three main candidates for prime minister, incumbent Haider al-Abadi, his predecessor Nuri al-Maliki and Shi'ite militia commander Hadi al-Amiri all need the support of Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal will prompt Iran to maintain its vast political and military influence in&nbsp;Iraq, the most important Arab state for Tehran.

Abadi is considered by analysts to be marginally ahead, but victory is far from certain for the man who raised hopes that he could forge unity when he came to office.

But while he reached out to minority Sunnis he alienated Kurds after crushing their bid for independence.

He improved his standing with the victory against Islamic State, which had occupied a third of Iraq.

But Abadi lacks charisma and has failed to improve the economy and tackle corruption. He also cannot rely solely on votes from his community as the Shi'ite voter base is unusually split this year. Instead, he is looking to draw support from other groups.

Even if Abadi's Victory Alliance list wins the most seats, he still has to negotiate the formation of a coalition government, which must be concluded within 90 days of the election.

"It's the same faces and same programmes. Abadi is the best of the worst; at least under his rule we had the liberation (from Islamic State)," said Hazem al-Hassan, 50-year-old fishmonger in Baghdad.

Amiri spent more than two decades fighting Saddam from exile in Iran. The 63-year-old leads the Badr Organisation, which was the backbone of the volunteer forces that fought Islamic State.

He hopes to capitalise on his battlefield successes. Victory for Amiri would be a win for Iran, which is locked in proxy wars for influence across the Middle East.

Disillusion

But many&nbsp;Iraqis are disillusioned with war heroes and politicians who have failed to restore state institutions and provide badly needed health and education services.

"There is no trust between the people and the governing class," said Hussein Fadel, a 42-year-old supermarket cashier in the capital. "All sides are terrible. I will not vote."

Critics say Maliki's sectarian policies created an atmosphere that enabled Islamic State to gain sympathy among some Sunnis as it swept across&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;in 2014.

Maliki has sidelined soon afterwards, having been in office for eight years, but he is now trying to make a comeback.

In contrast to Abadi, with his cross-sectarian message, Maliki is again posing as&nbsp;Iraq's Shi'ite champion and has proposed doing away with the unofficial power-sharing model under which all main parties have cabinet representatives.

Iraq's Sunni minority had dominated key positions in government during Saddam's brutal rule, whereas majority Shi'ites have held sway since a U.S-led invasion toppled the dictator in 2003.

Maliki, who pushed for U.S. troop withdrawals, and Amiri, who speaks fluent Farsi and spent years in exile in Iran during Saddam's time, are both seen as much closer to Tehran than Abadi.

The post of prime minister has been reserved for a Shi'ite, the speaker is a Sunni, and the ceremonial presidency has gone to a Kurd - all three chosen by parliament.

More than 7,000 candidates in 18 provinces, or governorates, are running this year for 329 parliamentary seats.

In Kirkuk, the main oil city disputed by&nbsp;Iraq's Kurds and the Baghdad government, 90-year-old Najm al-Azzawi has witnessed&nbsp;Iraq's upheaval over many years: Saddam Hussein's military adventures and the crippling international sanctions that followed, the U.S. occupation, sectarian bloodshed and Islamic State's reign of terror.

But he has not lost hope.

"God save&nbsp;Iraqis from the darkness they have been in," he said. "It is the most joyful thing to vote."

More than 7,000 candidates in 18 provinces, or governorates, are running this year for 329 parliamentary seats.

Iraqis began voting in the first parliamentary election on Saturday since defeating Islamic State, but few people expect its new leaders to deliver the stability and economic prosperity that have long been promised. The oil producer has struggled to find a formula for stability since a U.S.-led invasion toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, and many Iraqis have lost faith in their politicians. Whoever the new parliament chooses as prime minister will face an array of challenges after a three-year war against Islamic State which cost the country about $100 billion. Much of the northern city of Mosul was reduced to rubble in fighting to oust Islamic State, and it will require billions of dollars to rebuild. The economy is stagnant. Sectarian tensions, which erupted into civil war in 2006-2007, are still a major security threat. AndIraq's two main backers, Washington and Tehran, are at loggerheads. The three main ethnic and religious groups -- the majority Shi'ite Arabs and the Sunni Arabs and Kurds -- have been at odds for decades, and the sectarian divisions remain as deep as ever. Reuters reporters saw polling stations open in Baghdad and other cities. "I will participate but I will mark an 'X' on my ballot. There is no security, no jobs, no services. Candidates are just looking to line up their pockets, not to help people," said Jamal Mowasawi, a 61-year-old butcher. The three main candidates for prime minister, incumbent Haider al-Abadi, his predecessor Nuri al-Maliki and Shi'ite militia commander Hadi al-Amiri all need the support of Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal will prompt Iran to maintain its vast political and military influence in Iraq, the most important Arab state for Tehran. Abadi is considered by analysts to be marginally ahead, but victory is far from certain for the man who raised hopes that he could forge unity when he came to office. But while he reached out to minority Sunnis he alienated Kurds after crushing their bid for independence. He improved his standing with the victory against Islamic State, which had occupied a third of Iraq. But Abadi lacks charisma and has failed to improve the economy and tackle corruption. He also cannot rely solely on votes from his community as the Shi'ite voter base is unusually split this year. Instead, he is looking to draw support from other groups. Even if Abadi's Victory Alliance list wins the most seats, he still has to negotiate the formation of a coalition government, which must be concluded within 90 days of the election. "It's the same faces and same programmes. Abadi is the best of the worst; at least under his rule we had the liberation (from Islamic State)," said Hazem al-Hassan, 50-year-old fishmonger in Baghdad. Amiri spent more than two decades fighting Saddam from exile in Iran. The 63-year-old leads the Badr Organisation, which was the backbone of the volunteer forces that fought Islamic State. He hopes to capitalise on his battlefield successes. Victory for Amiri would be a win for Iran, which is locked in proxy wars for influence across the Middle East. Disillusion But many Iraqis are disillusioned with war heroes and politicians who have failed to restore state institutions and provide badly needed health and education services. "There is no trust between the people and the governing class," said Hussein Fadel, a 42-year-old supermarket cashier in the capital. "All sides are terrible. I will not vote." Critics say Maliki's sectarian policies created an atmosphere that enabled Islamic State to gain sympathy among some Sunnis as it swept across Iraq in 2014. Maliki has sidelined soon afterwards, having been in office for eight years, but he is now trying to make a comeback. In contrast to Abadi, with his cross-sectarian message, Maliki is again posing as Iraq's Shi'ite champion and has proposed doing away with the unofficial power-sharing model under which all main parties have cabinet representatives. Iraq's Sunni minority had dominated key positions in government during Saddam's brutal rule, whereas majority Shi'ites have held sway since a U.S-led invasion toppled the dictator in 2003. Maliki, who pushed for U.S. troop withdrawals, and Amiri, who speaks fluent Farsi and spent years in exile in Iran during Saddam's time, are both seen as much closer to Tehran than Abadi. The post of prime minister has been reserved for a Shi'ite, the speaker is a Sunni, and the ceremonial presidency has gone to a Kurd - all three chosen by parliament. More than 7,000 candidates in 18 provinces, or governorates, are running this year for 329 parliamentary seats. In Kirkuk, the main oil city disputed by Iraq's Kurds and the Baghdad government, 90-year-old Najm al-Azzawi has witnessed Iraq's upheaval over many years: Saddam Hussein's military adventures and the crippling international sanctions that followed, the U.S. occupation, sectarian bloodshed and Islamic State's reign of terror. But he has not lost hope. "God save Iraqis from the darkness they have been in," he said. "It is the most joyful thing to vote."

Iraqis start voting in first election since defeating Islamic State

Iraqi authorities have beefed up intelligence operations and are planning to use drones for aerial surveillance as the country prepares to hold national elections.

Voters will head to the polls this weekend for the first time since the government declared victory against the Islamic State group (IS), in national elections that could tilt the balance of power between the United States and Iran.

Authorities deployed troops and reinforced check points in the Iraqi capital.

Nearly 7,000 candidates will vie for 329 seats in the May 12 parliamentary elections, the fourth since the 2003 US-led invasion.

Authorities deployed troops and reinforced check points in the Iraqi capital.

Iraqi authorities have beefed up intelligence operations and are planning to use drones for aerial surveillance as the country prepares to hold national elections. Voters will head to the polls this weekend for the first time since the government declared victory against the Islamic State group (IS), in national elections that could tilt the balance of power between the United States and Iran. Authorities deployed troops and reinforced check points in the Iraqi capital. Nearly 7,000 candidates will vie for 329 seats in the May 12 parliamentary elections, the fourth since the 2003 US-led invasion.

Iraqi authorities step up security ahead of elections

A Revolutionary Court in Iran on Saturday began the trial of a group accused of involvement in attacks last year which killed 18 people in the first deadly operation by Islamic State in the country.

Eight of the 26 suspects in the case attended the hearing, facing charges including belonging to a terrorist organisation, weapons smuggling and unauthorised entry to Iran, the Iranian judiciary's news website Mizanonline reported.

Sunni Islamic State, in decline in Iraq and Syria, claimed responsibility for the unprecedented attacks in majority Shi'ite Iran, in which suicide bombers and gunmen attacked the parliament and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s mausoleum in Tehran. The attackers were Kurdish Iranian Sunnis.

Iran has said that the five gunmen and suicide bombers who were killed had fought in the militants’ strongholds in Syria and Iraq.

Eight of the 26 suspects in the case attended the hearing, facing charges including belonging to a terrorist organisation, weapons smuggling and unauthorised entry to Iran, the Iranian judiciary's news website Mizanonline reported

A Revolutionary Court in Iran on Saturday began the trial of a group accused of involvement in attacks last year which killed 18 people in the first deadly operation by Islamic State in the country. Eight of the 26 suspects in the case attended the hearing, facing charges including belonging to a terrorist organisation, weapons smuggling and unauthorised entry to Iran, the Iranian judiciary's news website Mizanonline reported. Sunni Islamic State, in decline in Iraq and Syria, claimed responsibility for the unprecedented attacks in majority Shi'ite Iran, in which suicide bombers and gunmen attacked the parliament and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s mausoleum in Tehran. The attackers were Kurdish Iranian Sunnis. Iran has said that the five gunmen and suicide bombers who were killed had fought in the militants’ strongholds in Syria and Iraq.

Trial begins in Iran over deadly attacks claimed by Islamic State

Islamic State's Amaq News Agency released a video on Friday showing what they said was Islamic State militants shooting "two advocators" for next month's Iraqi parliamentary elections in the town of al-Tarmiyah, in the Salah al-Din governorate north of Baghdad.

Islamic State said earlier this week that it would attack polling stations in Iraq during parliamentary elections next month and that anyone who participated in the vote would be considered an infidel.

In an audio message released on April 22, the militant group's spokesman accused Iraq's Shi'ite-led government of being a proxy of Iran and warned that anyone who runs or votes in the May 12 election would be targeted.

ISIS, and previously Al-Qaeda, had routinely warned Iraqis against participating in elections, by assassinating a number of candidates or carrying out suicide attacks at polling stations.

Although ISIS no longer has a declared presence on Iraqi soil, it continues to operate in desert areas along the Iraqi-Syrian-Jordanian border or in areas adjacent to the governorates of Kirkuk and Salaheddine.

The Joint Operations Command described the threats launched by the ISIS spokesman as attempts by the defeated organization to lift the morale of its members.

Iraqi officials have said polling stations will be well protected.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory in December over Islamic State, which seized a third of Iraq in 2014, but the hardline Sunni militants have reverted to insurgency tactics following the crumbling of their self-declared caliphate.

Voting in Iraq’s parliamentary elections is scheduled for May 12, in which 6,904 candidates have registered to run for 329 seats. That’s less than in 2014, when 9,000 candidates put their names in the ring.

This time, eyes will be on what happens in mostly Sunni Arab districts that were liberated from ISIS over the last several years. Abadi visited Fallujah, a Sunni city devastated by the conflict, on April 22. There are almost 100 seats up for grabs in Kirkuk, Ninewa, Diyala, Salah a-Din and Anbar governorates, where most of Iraq’s Arab Sunnis live. Turnout will also be watched closely in Kurdish regions.

Some Kurds have been calling to boycott the elections since Baghdad sent its army into Kirkuk, a largely Kurdish city in northern Iraq. Baghdad sought to reassert Federal control after the September 2017 Kurdistan independence referendum.

ISIS said earlier this week that it would attack polling stations in Iraq during parliamentary elections next month and that anyone who participated in the vote would be considered an infidel

Islamic State's Amaq News Agency released a video on Friday showing what they said was Islamic State militants shooting "two advocators" for next month's Iraqi parliamentary elections in the town of al-Tarmiyah, in the Salah al-Din governorate north of Baghdad. Islamic State said earlier this week that it would attack polling stations in Iraq during parliamentary elections next month and that anyone who participated in the vote would be considered an infidel. In an audio message released on April 22, the militant group's spokesman accused Iraq's Shi'ite-led government of being a proxy of Iran and warned that anyone who runs or votes in the May 12 election would be targeted. ISIS, and previously Al-Qaeda, had routinely warned Iraqis against participating in elections, by assassinating a number of candidates or carrying out suicide attacks at polling stations. Although ISIS no longer has a declared presence on Iraqi soil, it continues to operate in desert areas along the Iraqi-Syrian-Jordanian border or in areas adjacent to the governorates of Kirkuk and Salaheddine. The Joint Operations Command described the threats launched by the ISIS spokesman as attempts by the defeated organization to lift the morale of its members. Iraqi officials have said polling stations will be well protected. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory in December over Islamic State, which seized a third of Iraq in 2014, but the hardline Sunni militants have reverted to insurgency tactics following the crumbling of their self-declared caliphate. Voting in Iraq’s parliamentary elections is scheduled for May 12, in which 6,904 candidates have registered to run for 329 seats. That’s less than in 2014, when 9,000 candidates put their names in the ring. This time, eyes will be on what happens in mostly Sunni Arab districts that were liberated from ISIS over the last several years. Abadi visited Fallujah, a Sunni city devastated by the conflict, on April 22. There are almost 100 seats up for grabs in Kirkuk, Ninewa, Diyala, Salah a-Din and Anbar governorates, where most of Iraq’s Arab Sunnis live. Turnout will also be watched closely in Kurdish regions. Some Kurds have been calling to boycott the elections since Baghdad sent its army into Kirkuk, a largely Kurdish city in northern Iraq. Baghdad sought to reassert Federal control after the September 2017 Kurdistan independence referendum.

ISIS threatens Iraq elections, releases video showing execution of 'election advocators'

Iraq today said that its air strike in Syria on April 19 has killed 36 terrorists from the Islamic State group. Those killed included senior IS members as well.&nbsp

Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday, a rare air assault across the border.

The Iraqi raids are believed to have been carried by F-16 fighter jets and targetted a meeting of terrorist leaders near the Hajin town in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Ezzor.

Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday

Iraq today said that its air strike in Syria on April 19 has killed 36 terrorists from the Islamic State group. Those killed included senior IS members as well. Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday, a rare air assault across the border. The Iraqi raids are believed to have been carried by F-16 fighter jets and targetted a meeting of terrorist leaders near the Hajin town in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Ezzor.

Iraq's April 19 air strike in Syria killed 36 'IS terrorists'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-coming-to-power-in-karnataka-will-prove-to-be-stepping-stone-for-rest-of-country-siddaramaiah-to-wion-131388">Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION</a>

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/repeating-a-lie-doesnt-turn-it-into-the-truth-says-pak-on-pm-modis-surgical-strike-statement-131390">'Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth,' says Pak on PM Modi's surgical strike statement</a>

After PM Modi said the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/3-belgian-companies-face-heat-over-chemical-exports-to-syria-131430">3 Belgian companies face heat over chemical exports to Syria</a>

According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court. Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/air-force-carried-out-strikes-on-islamic-state-targets-inside-syria-iraq-pm-131409">Air Force carried out strikes on Islamic State targets inside Syria: Iraq PM</a>

PM Haider al-Abadi's said Iraqi Air Force carried out air strikes on Islamic State(IS) installations inside Syria. The prime minister's office said the "deadly air strikes" were launched from the Iraqi side of the border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-bangladesh-model-mosques-will-be-open-for-women--131408">Bangladesh's billion-dollar 'model' mosques will be open for women</a>

Touted as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's flagship project, the plan aims to set up model mosques across the country to check radical ideologies and counter Islamist extremist. The preliminary work for the project has already been started. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country. 'Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth,' says Pak on PM Modi's surgical strike statement After PM Modi said the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth." 3 Belgian companies face heat over chemical exports to Syria According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court. Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas. Air Force carried out strikes on Islamic State targets inside Syria: Iraq PM PM Haider al-Abadi's said Iraqi Air Force carried out air strikes on Islamic State(IS) installations inside Syria. The prime minister's office said the "deadly air strikes" were launched from the Iraqi side of the border. Bangladesh's billion-dollar 'model' mosques will be open for women Touted as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's flagship project, the plan aims to set up model mosques across the country to check radical ideologies and counter Islamist extremist. The preliminary work for the project has already been started.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Iraqi courts have sentenced 212 people to death in Mosul and surrounding areas, most of them for complicity with Islamic State, since the area was retaken by Iraqi forces in July and August 2017, a judiciary spokesman said on Wednesday.

Mosul was home to two million people before being overrun in 2014 by Islamic State which proclaimed a "caliphate" stretching into neighbouring Syria.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared full victory over the group last December after Iraqi forces drove its last remnants from the country.

Since then, Human rights groups have accused Iraqi and other regional forces of inconsistencies in the judicial process and flawed trials leading to unfair convictions.

Iraq's Supreme Judicial Council said on Wednesday that criminal courts falling under the Nineveh Federal Court of Appeals, whose jurisdiction includes Mosul, had so far ruled on a total of 815 cases since the area was recaptured from Islamic State.

"The statistics coming from the criminal courts show that 815 people have gone on trial and that 212 were sentenced to death. A further 150 were sentenced to life in prison," said judiciary spokesman Judge Abdul-Sattar al-Birqdar.

It was not immediately clear how many, if any, of the death sentences, had been already carried out.

"The vast majority of these rulings were against elements of the Islamic State terrorist organisation who were proven to have committed crimes and came after public trials conducted in accordance with the law. Defendants were afforded their rights," Birqdar said.

Another 341 people were jailed for various terms and 112 were acquitted, he said.

New York-based Human Rights Watch released an 80-page report in December accusing Iraqi federal and Kurdish regional judiciaries of violating the rights of Islamic State suspects with flawed trials, arbitrary detentions under harsh conditions and broad prosecutions.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared full victory over the group last December after Iraqi forces drove its last remnants from the country

Iraqi courts have sentenced 212 people to death in Mosul and surrounding areas, most of them for complicity with Islamic State, since the area was retaken by Iraqi forces in July and August 2017, a judiciary spokesman said on Wednesday. Mosul was home to two million people before being overrun in 2014 by Islamic State which proclaimed a "caliphate" stretching into neighbouring Syria. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared full victory over the group last December after Iraqi forces drove its last remnants from the country. Since then, Human rights groups have accused Iraqi and other regional forces of inconsistencies in the judicial process and flawed trials leading to unfair convictions. Iraq's Supreme Judicial Council said on Wednesday that criminal courts falling under the Nineveh Federal Court of Appeals, whose jurisdiction includes Mosul, had so far ruled on a total of 815 cases since the area was recaptured from Islamic State. "The statistics coming from the criminal courts show that 815 people have gone on trial and that 212 were sentenced to death. A further 150 were sentenced to life in prison," said judiciary spokesman Judge Abdul-Sattar al-Birqdar. It was not immediately clear how many, if any, of the death sentences, had been already carried out. "The vast majority of these rulings were against elements of the Islamic State terrorist organisation who were proven to have committed crimes and came after public trials conducted in accordance with the law. Defendants were afforded their rights," Birqdar said. Another 341 people were jailed for various terms and 112 were acquitted, he said. New York-based Human Rights Watch released an 80-page report in December accusing Iraqi federal and Kurdish regional judiciaries of violating the rights of Islamic State suspects with flawed trials, arbitrary detentions under harsh conditions and broad prosecutions.

Iraq sentences 212 to death in Mosul area since recapture from Islamic State

A suicide attack targeting a political party headquarters in western Iraq has killed four people and injured seven others, including a candidate in polls set for May, officials said today.

Last evening "two suicide bombers disguised as soldiers entered the Al-Hal Party headquarters", one of most prominent parties in the Sunni-majority province of Al-Anbar, a local security official told AFP on the condition of anonymity.

One of the attackers "detonated his explosive belt while political leaders held a meeting" at the campaign headquarters in the city of Hit, about 200 kilometres (125 miles) west of Baghdad, General Qassam al-Mohammadi, head of army operations in the area, told AFP.

"Three members of the security forces were killed and seven people, including candidate Zineb Abdel Hamid al-Hiti, were wounded," he said.

A municipal employee today also succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, the anonymous official said.

He said the second attacker detonated his belt shortly after the first, but did not cause any casualties.

Medical sources confirmed the death toll of four and said Hiti had been hospitalised with light injuries.

There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack, which took place in the tribal desert province of Al-Anbar, primarily home to Sunni Muslims.

Sunnis are a minority in Iraq, where more than two-thirds of the population is Shiite Muslim.

For three years, the Sunni Islamic State jihadist group ruled over the province, which stretches from the western periphery of the capital to the border with war-torn Syria.

In December, Baghdad declared "victory" against IS after retaking the groups last urban stronghold in Al-Anbar.

But according to experts, jihadists are still hiding along the porous border with Syria and in parts of the Iraqi desert.

Elections held in Iraq since the US-led invasion in 2003 and the fall of Saddam Husseins regime have all been marred by deadly violence.

But in the run-up to the May 12 polls, the country has enjoyed a respite from violence which has significantly decreased in recent months.&nbsp

Elections held in Iraq since the US-led invasion in 2003 and the fall of Saddam Husseins regime have all been marred by deadly violence

A suicide attack targeting a political party headquarters in western Iraq has killed four people and injured seven others, including a candidate in polls set for May, officials said today. Last evening "two suicide bombers disguised as soldiers entered the Al-Hal Party headquarters", one of most prominent parties in the Sunni-majority province of Al-Anbar, a local security official told AFP on the condition of anonymity. One of the attackers "detonated his explosive belt while political leaders held a meeting" at the campaign headquarters in the city of Hit, about 200 kilometres (125 miles) west of Baghdad, General Qassam al-Mohammadi, head of army operations in the area, told AFP. "Three members of the security forces were killed and seven people, including candidate Zineb Abdel Hamid al-Hiti, were wounded," he said. A municipal employee today also succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, the anonymous official said. He said the second attacker detonated his belt shortly after the first, but did not cause any casualties. Medical sources confirmed the death toll of four and said Hiti had been hospitalised with light injuries. There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack, which took place in the tribal desert province of Al-Anbar, primarily home to Sunni Muslims. Sunnis are a minority in Iraq, where more than two-thirds of the population is Shiite Muslim. For three years, the Sunni Islamic State jihadist group ruled over the province, which stretches from the western periphery of the capital to the border with war-torn Syria. In December, Baghdad declared "victory" against IS after retaking the groups last urban stronghold in Al-Anbar. But according to experts, jihadists are still hiding along the porous border with Syria and in parts of the Iraqi desert. Elections held in Iraq since the US-led invasion in 2003 and the fall of Saddam Husseins regime have all been marred by deadly violence. But in the run-up to the May 12 polls, the country has enjoyed a respite from violence which has significantly decreased in recent months.

Four killed in suicide attack on Iraq party headquarters

Responding to a question on whether the families of the 39 Indians who died in Iraq will be provided jobs or compensation, MoS VK Singh said Monday the issue was not like distributing biscuits.&nbsp;

He said, "The issue is not about distributing biscuits, it is about the life of people, did you understand".

He further said that how can he announce the amount (now), he did not have any treasure in his pocket.

&nbsp;

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Ye biscuit baantne wala kaam nahi hai, ye admiyon ki zindagi ka sawal hai,a gayi baat samajh mein?Main abhi elaan kahan se karoon?Jeb mein koi pitaara thodi rakha hua hai: VK Singh,MoS MEA on if there would be some compensation announced today for kin of 38 Indians killed in Iraq <a href="https://t.co/jQFp2IXDLW">pic.twitter.com/jQFp2IXDLW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980740160592777216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also said that it was not a game of football and the External Affairs Ministry will review the families about the details of the members who can be given jobs&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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This is not a game of football, Both state and central govt are sensitive govts, EAM had asked the families for the details of their members who can be given jobs etc, we will review: VK Singh,MoS MEA on whether kin of the 38 Indians will be given jobs <a href="https://t.co/J0ryINOc1P">pic.twitter.com/J0ryINOc1P</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980735924169531392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has announced ex-gratia&nbsp;compensation of Rs 5 lakh including jobs to families of 27 Indians who died in Mosul, Iraq.

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Ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh per family, job for one person per family will be given and current pension of Rs 20,000 to continue: Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on compensation for 27 of 39 Indians killed in Iraq who were from Punjab <a href="https://t.co/KIaHKBrzR5">pic.twitter.com/KIaHKBrzR5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980745194080489477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

MoS VK Singh brought back the mortal&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vk-singh-leaves-for-iraq-to-bring-back-bodies-of-39-indians-killed-in-mosul-127575">remains of 38 Indians who were</a>&nbsp;killed by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq&nbsp;in Amritsar today.

The Indians had gone missing in 2014 as the government launched a massive search operation along with the Iraqi government.

Foreign Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had announced in Parliament last month that the Indian government had found the mortal remains of the Indians.

MoS VK Singh said that providing jobs and compensation to the 39 Indians who died in Mosul, Iraq was not a game of football and the External Affairs Ministry will review the families about the details of the members who can be given jobs

Responding to a question on whether the families of the 39 Indians who died in Iraq will be provided jobs or compensation, MoS VK Singh said Monday the issue was not like distributing biscuits. He said, "The issue is not about distributing biscuits, it is about the life of people, did you understand". He further said that how can he announce the amount (now), he did not have any treasure in his pocket. Ye biscuit baantne wala kaam nahi hai, ye admiyon ki zindagi ka sawal hai,a gayi baat samajh mein?Main abhi elaan kahan se karoon?Jeb mein koi pitaara thodi rakha hua hai: VK Singh,MoS MEA on if there would be some compensation announced today for kin of 38 Indians killed in Iraq pic.twitter.com/jQFp2IXDLW — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × He also said that it was not a game of football and the External Affairs Ministry will review the families about the details of the members who can be given jobs This is not a game of football, Both state and central govt are sensitive govts, EAM had asked the families for the details of their members who can be given jobs etc, we will review: VK Singh,MoS MEA on whether kin of the 38 Indians will be given jobs pic.twitter.com/J0ryINOc1P — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × Meanwhile, Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has announced ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh including jobs to families of 27 Indians who died in Mosul, Iraq. Ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh per family, job for one person per family will be given and current pension of Rs 20,000 to continue: Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on compensation for 27 of 39 Indians killed in Iraq who were from Punjab pic.twitter.com/KIaHKBrzR5 — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × MoS VK Singh brought back the mortal remains of 38 Indians who were killed by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq in Amritsar today. The Indians had gone missing in 2014 as the government launched a massive search operation along with the Iraqi government. Foreign Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had announced in Parliament last month that the Indian government had found the mortal remains of the Indians.

Not like distributing biscuits: VK Singh on compensation to kin of Indians killed in Iraq

The mortal <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vk-singh-leaves-for-iraq-to-bring-back-bodies-of-39-indians-killed-in-mosul-127575">remains of 38 Indians who were</a> killed by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq arrived in Amritsar today.

Minister of state for external affairs VK Singh brought back the bodies of the Indians in caskets.

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This is not a game of football, Both state and central govt are sensitive govts, EAM had asked the families for the details of their members who can be given jobs etc, we will review: VK Singh,MoS MEA on whether kin of the 38 Indians will be given jobs <a href="https://t.co/J0ryINOc1P">pic.twitter.com/J0ryINOc1P</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980735924169531392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The government has left no stone unturned,"&nbsp;VK Singh said as he addressed the media.

"It is an irreparable&nbsp;loss," he added.

The Indians had gone missing in 2014 as the government launched a massive search operation along with the Iraqi government.

Foreign Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had announced in Parliament last month that the Indian government had found the mortal remains of the Indians.

VK Singh briefed the media as he arrived in Amritsar

The mortal remains of 38 Indians who were killed by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq arrived in Amritsar today. Minister of state for external affairs VK Singh brought back the bodies of the Indians in caskets. This is not a game of football, Both state and central govt are sensitive govts, EAM had asked the families for the details of their members who can be given jobs etc, we will review: VK Singh,MoS MEA on whether kin of the 38 Indians will be given jobs pic.twitter.com/J0ryINOc1P — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × "The government has left no stone unturned," VK Singh said as he addressed the media. "It is an irreparable loss," he added. The Indians had gone missing in 2014 as the government launched a massive search operation along with the Iraqi government. Foreign Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had announced in Parliament last month that the Indian government had found the mortal remains of the Indians.

VK Singh brings back mortal remains of 38 Indians killed in Iraq

A magnitude 5.3 earthquake hit western Iran on Sunday, injuring at least 38 people, a spokesman for the country's medical emergency services said.

Most of the 38 were released after receiving treatment in hospitals in the affected province of Kermanshah, Mojtaba Khaledi told the semi-official news agency ISNA.

The quake struck 9km from the town of Sarpol-e Zahab in western Iran at a depth of 10km, reports said.&nbsp

The epicenter of the earthquake, which took place at 13:05 am local time (0835 GMT), was in Sar pol zahab city.

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in the same area in November killed at least 530 people and injured more than 8,000.

Most of the 38 were released after receiving treatment in hospitals in the affected province of Kermanshah, Mojtaba Khaledi told the semi-official news agency ISNA

A magnitude 5.3 earthquake hit western Iran on Sunday, injuring at least 38 people, a spokesman for the country's medical emergency services said. Most of the 38 were released after receiving treatment in hospitals in the affected province of Kermanshah, Mojtaba Khaledi told the semi-official news agency ISNA. The quake struck 9km from the town of Sarpol-e Zahab in western Iran at a depth of 10km, reports said. The epicenter of the earthquake, which took place at 13:05 am local time (0835 GMT), was in Sar pol zahab city. A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in the same area in November killed at least 530 people and injured more than 8,000.

Earthquake of 5.3 magnitude strikes Iran, at least 38 injured

Minister of State for External Affairs General V K Singh (retd) has left for Mosul to bring back the mortal remains of the 39 Indians who were killed in the war-torn country.

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`I am going to Mosul to get mortal remains of 38 Indians, we won't get one man's remains as his case is pending. We will handover coffins to the family members with evidence so that they have no doubts about it. My deepest condolences to the families of the deceased: Gen VK Singh <a href="https://t.co/JpqUzGMTO7">pic.twitter.com/JpqUzGMTO7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980343719466500096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The minister is expected to bring back the bodies by late Monday, following which he will travel to Amritsar, Punjab and Patna to hand over the mortal remains to their respective families.

"I am leaving for Iraq, will be getting back mortal remains of the 39 Indians. Tomorrow I will return to Amritsar, and then will go to Kolkata and then Patna. The families of the victims have been informed about the same," Singh said.

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Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh leaves for Iraq to bring back mortal remains of 38 Indians who were killed by ISIS in Mosul. <a href="https://t.co/SuRIbIg1VB">pic.twitter.com/SuRIbIg1VB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980354524077608960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On March 20, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj informed the Rajya Sabha members in the Parliament that the 39 Indian nationals, who went missing in Mosul in 2014, were killed by the terror outfit Islamic State (IS).

The 39 persons, most of whom hailed from Punjab, were working on projects near Mosul when they were kidnapped.&nbsp;

The 39 persons, most of whom hailed from Punjab, were working on projects near Mosul when they were kidnapped and executed

Minister of State for External Affairs General V K Singh (retd) has left for Mosul to bring back the mortal remains of the 39 Indians who were killed in the war-torn country. `I am going to Mosul to get mortal remains of 38 Indians, we won't get one man's remains as his case is pending. We will handover coffins to the family members with evidence so that they have no doubts about it. My deepest condolences to the families of the deceased: Gen VK Singh pic.twitter.com/JpqUzGMTO7 — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2018 × The minister is expected to bring back the bodies by late Monday, following which he will travel to Amritsar, Punjab and Patna to hand over the mortal remains to their respective families. "I am leaving for Iraq, will be getting back mortal remains of the 39 Indians. Tomorrow I will return to Amritsar, and then will go to Kolkata and then Patna. The families of the victims have been informed about the same," Singh said. Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh leaves for Iraq to bring back mortal remains of 38 Indians who were killed by ISIS in Mosul. pic.twitter.com/SuRIbIg1VB — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2018 × On March 20, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj informed the Rajya Sabha members in the Parliament that the 39 Indian nationals, who went missing in Mosul in 2014, were killed by the terror outfit Islamic State (IS). The 39 persons, most of whom hailed from Punjab, were working on projects near Mosul when they were kidnapped.

VK Singh leaves for Iraq to bring back bodies of 39 Indians killed in Mosul

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/gen-vk-singh-to-bring-back-mortal-remains-of-39-indians-killed-in-mosul-127205">Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh</a> has said that the government is waiting for the permission of the Iraq&nbsp;government&nbsp;for bringing back the mortal remains of 39 Indians who died in Iraq.

He said that all the legal procedures for obtaining the mortal remains of the Indians killed in Iraq were complete and the government was waiting for a green signal from the Baghdad ambassador.

Singh further added that the families of the deceased need not come to the airport, instead, the government will fly to the respective states and hand over the mortal remains to the respective&nbsp;families.

He said " As soon as we get a nod from the Baghdad ambassador we will leave with a C-17 plane to bring back the mortal remains with due honours. We will handover the mortal remains to their families. They won't have to come to the airport."

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As soon as we get a nod from Baghdad ambassador, we will leave with a C-17 plane to bring back the mortal remains with due honours. We will handover the mortal remains to their families. They won't have to come to the airport: VK Singh, MoS MEA on 39 Indians killed in Mosul <a href="https://t.co/JTFQYDSB7c">pic.twitter.com/JTFQYDSB7c</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/979959792327450624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh will visit Iraq on April 1 to bring back the mortal remains of the Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul, Iraq.

On March 20, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had informed the Parliament&nbsp;about the death of 39 people of Indian origin in Mosul.

Those killed were allegedly&nbsp;abducted by the ISIS in Mosul.

Out of 39 people killed, 27 belonged to Punjab while 4 hailed from Himachal, 6 from Bihar and 1 from West Bengal.

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Singh said that all the legal procedures for obtaining the mortal remains of the Indians killed in Iraq were complete and the government was waiting for a green signal from the Baghdad ambassador

Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh has said that the government is waiting for the permission of the Iraq government for bringing back the mortal remains of 39 Indians who died in Iraq. He said that all the legal procedures for obtaining the mortal remains of the Indians killed in Iraq were complete and the government was waiting for a green signal from the Baghdad ambassador. Singh further added that the families of the deceased need not come to the airport, instead, the government will fly to the respective states and hand over the mortal remains to the respective families. He said " As soon as we get a nod from the Baghdad ambassador we will leave with a C-17 plane to bring back the mortal remains with due honours. We will handover the mortal remains to their families. They won't have to come to the airport." As soon as we get a nod from Baghdad ambassador, we will leave with a C-17 plane to bring back the mortal remains with due honours. We will handover the mortal remains to their families. They won't have to come to the airport: VK Singh, MoS MEA on 39 Indians killed in Mosul pic.twitter.com/JTFQYDSB7c — ANI (@ANI) March 31, 2018 × Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh will visit Iraq on April 1 to bring back the mortal remains of the Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul, Iraq. On March 20, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had informed the Parliament about the death of 39 people of Indian origin in Mosul. Those killed were allegedly abducted by the ISIS in Mosul. Out of 39 people killed, 27 belonged to Punjab while 4 hailed from Himachal, 6 from Bihar and 1 from West Bengal.

Government waiting for Iraq's nod to bring back mortal remains: General VK Singh

Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh will visit Iraq on April 1 to bring back mortal remains of 39 Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul, Iraq.

On March 20, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had informed the Parliament&nbsp;about the death of the 39 Indians in Mosul.

The 39 Indians were allegedly&nbsp;abducted by ISIS in Mosul.

Of the 39 bodies, 27 were from Punjab and 4 belonged to Himachal, 6 from Bihar and 1 from West Bengal.

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MoS MEA VK Singh to visit Iraq on 1 April to bring back mortal remains of 39 Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul. (File Pic) <a href="https://t.co/w2U70lPH0R">pic.twitter.com/w2U70lPH0R</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/979572219302031360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh, had earlier in 2015 evacuated over thousands of Indians from Yemen.

On March 20, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had informed the Parliament about the death of the 39 Indians in Mosul who were allegedly kidnapped by the ISIS

Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh will visit Iraq on April 1 to bring back mortal remains of 39 Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul, Iraq. On March 20, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had informed the Parliament about the death of the 39 Indians in Mosul. The 39 Indians were allegedly abducted by ISIS in Mosul. Of the 39 bodies, 27 were from Punjab and 4 belonged to Himachal, 6 from Bihar and 1 from West Bengal. MoS MEA VK Singh to visit Iraq on 1 April to bring back mortal remains of 39 Indians, who were killed by ISIS in Mosul. (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/w2U70lPH0R — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2018 × Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh, had earlier in 2015 evacuated over thousands of Indians from Yemen.

Gen VK Singh to bring back mortal remains of 39 Indians killed in Mosul

Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News.

VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians&nbsp;who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life."

VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government &nbsp;showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this."

He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar.

However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done.

"If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India."

While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." &nbsp;

"I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added.

VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?"

VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need.

After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies.

Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now.

Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals.

Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.

VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Iraq

Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News. VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life." VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this." He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar. However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done. "If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India." While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." "I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added. VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?" VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need. After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies. Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now. Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals. Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.

Government ready to help families of Indians killed in Mosul: VK Singh

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim.

 
Abadi`s office said&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

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Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim. Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

Iraq opposes cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi PM Abadi tells Turkey's Yildirim

The kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announced that they would hold&nbsp;a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Saturday.

The Brother-in-law of one of the Indian killed in Iraq said that &quot;we&#39;ve given govt time till tomorrow morning to announce a compensation to secure future of families of deceased. If they aren&#39;t able to do it then we&#39;ll protest at Jantar Mantar tomorrow.&quot;

Sister of Manjinder Singh, Gurpidner Kaur also claimed that the government is not responding to the demands even External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has not replied to the &#39;repeated attempts of contact.&#39;

&nbsp;&quot;We won&#39;t do a violent protest, we&#39;ll just sit peacefully. Union govt hasn&#39;t contacted us yet. EAM Sushma Swaraj has not replied to us even after repeated attempts to contact and meet her: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq,&quot; she said.

Sushma Swaraj informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about the 39 kidnapped Indians&nbsp;who had gone missing since 2014 in Iraq are dead. Most of them were from Punjab.

All of them were shot in the head.The bodies have also been recovered from a mound in Badush village near Mosul.&nbsp;

The 39 Indians were kidnapped in 2014. On Wednesday Swaraj said they had been killed by the Islamic State.&nbsp;

Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) VK Singh has flown to Mosul to bring back the bodies.&nbsp;

The government has come under much flak for its handling of the case. The families of the 39 killed have said they heard about the deaths when Swaraj made her speech in Parliament, and that they were not told beforehand.&nbsp;

The opposition meanwhile has said the government knew about the deaths beforehand but had been misleading the public.&nbsp; 
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Kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announce to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Friday

The kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announced that they would hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Saturday. The Brother-in-law of one of the Indian killed in Iraq said that "we've given govt time till tomorrow morning to announce a compensation to secure future of families of deceased. If they aren't able to do it then we'll protest at Jantar Mantar tomorrow." Sister of Manjinder Singh, Gurpidner Kaur also claimed that the government is not responding to the demands even External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has not replied to the 'repeated attempts of contact.' "We won't do a violent protest, we'll just sit peacefully. Union govt hasn't contacted us yet. EAM Sushma Swaraj has not replied to us even after repeated attempts to contact and meet her: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq," she said. Sushma Swaraj informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about the 39 kidnapped Indians who had gone missing since 2014 in Iraq are dead. Most of them were from Punjab. All of them were shot in the head.The bodies have also been recovered from a mound in Badush village near Mosul. The 39 Indians were kidnapped in 2014. On Wednesday Swaraj said they had been killed by the Islamic State. Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) VK Singh has flown to Mosul to bring back the bodies. The government has come under much flak for its handling of the case. The families of the 39 killed have said they heard about the deaths when Swaraj made her speech in Parliament, and that they were not told beforehand. The opposition meanwhile has said the government knew about the deaths beforehand but had been misleading the public.

Families of Indians killed in Iraq to hold a protest in Delhi over compensation demand

A distraught kin of one of the 39&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aninews.in/search?query=Indians">Indians</a>&nbsp;killed in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aninews.in/search?query=Iraq">Iraq</a>&nbsp;has demanded that the DNA test reports of his deceased brother be given to his family.

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My brother went to Iraq in 2012 where he worked as a carpenter. We had been asking MEA for proof of him being alive or dead. We demand that reports of the DNA test be given to us: Malkit Ram, Brother of a Saganandlal who was among the 39 Indians killed in Mosul <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jalandhar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jalandhar</a> <a href="https://t.co/a4YMdZZu99">pic.twitter.com/a4YMdZZu99</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976309315022868480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;My brother went to Iraq in 2012 where he worked as a carpenter. We had been asking MEA for proof of him being alive or dead. We demand that reports of the DNA test be given to us,&#39;&#39; said Malkit Ram, brother of Saganandlal who was among the 39 Indians killed in Mosul. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-did-not-keep-anyone-in-the-dark-over-the-deaths-of-39-indians-in-mosul-sushma-swaraj-36505">External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj </a>yesterday told Parliament in New Delhi that the 39 Indians abducted in 2014 by the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in Mosul city were dead and their bodies had been recovered.

Meanwhile, the US today offered its &quot;deepest condolences&quot; on the death of 39 Indian nationals abducted by ISIS in Iraq, saying it stands with the people of India in condemning the murders.

&quot;We offer our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims,&quot; a State Department spokesperson told responding to a question on the discovery of a mass grave with the bodies of the Indian construction workers.

&quot;We stand with the people of India in condemning these murders,&quot; the spokesperson said.

The northern Iraqi city of Mosul has now been liberated from the ISIS. The bodies of Indian workers were found buried near the village of Badsuh, which is in the northwest of Mosul.&nbsp; 
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US offered its "deepest condolences" on the death of 39 Indian nationals abducted by ISIS in Iraq, saying it stands with the people of India in condemning the murders.

A distraught kin of one of the 39 Indians killed in Iraq has demanded that the DNA test reports of his deceased brother be given to his family. My brother went to Iraq in 2012 where he worked as a carpenter. We had been asking MEA for proof of him being alive or dead. We demand that reports of the DNA test be given to us: Malkit Ram, Brother of a Saganandlal who was among the 39 Indians killed in Mosul #Jalandhar pic.twitter.com/a4YMdZZu99 — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2018 × ''My brother went to Iraq in 2012 where he worked as a carpenter. We had been asking MEA for proof of him being alive or dead. We demand that reports of the DNA test be given to us,'' said Malkit Ram, brother of Saganandlal who was among the 39 Indians killed in Mosul. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj yesterday told Parliament in New Delhi that the 39 Indians abducted in 2014 by the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in Mosul city were dead and their bodies had been recovered. Meanwhile, the US today offered its "deepest condolences" on the death of 39 Indian nationals abducted by ISIS in Iraq, saying it stands with the people of India in condemning the murders. "We offer our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims," a State Department spokesperson told responding to a question on the discovery of a mass grave with the bodies of the Indian construction workers. "We stand with the people of India in condemning these murders," the spokesperson said. The northern Iraqi city of Mosul has now been liberated from the ISIS. The bodies of Indian workers were found buried near the village of Badsuh, which is in the northwest of Mosul.

Kin of 39 Indians killed in ISIS custody in Iraq demand DNA test report of victims

After informing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-information-was-given-to-us-sister-of-indian-killed-in-iraq-36478">Parliament</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/politics-over-deaths-shameful-sushma-swaraj-on-indians-killed-in-mosul-36498"> on the deaths of 39 Indians in Mosu</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-information-was-given-to-us-sister-of-indian-killed-in-iraq-36478">l, Iraq</a>, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters that the bodies of Indians weren&#39;t found in mass graves but in a mound in Badush.

&quot;The bodies were buried<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-information-was-given-to-us-sister-of-indian-killed-in-iraq-36478"> in a mound</a> in Badush,&quot; Sushma Swaraj said at a press conference.

Sushma Swaraj criticised the Congress for &quot;politicising&quot; the issue, declaring that Congress&#39;s behaviour in Parliament &quot;condemnable&quot;.

&quot;Congress had resorted to &quot;hungama&quot; in Parliament, she said, while asserting that the Upper House of Parliament had heard her patiently.

&quot;It was my duty to inform Parliament first,&quot; she said,&nbsp;adding that the Indian government did not want to declare the deaths of Indians in haste.

Earlier, as Sushma Swaraj announced in Parliament on the fate of the missing Indians who were allegedly abducted by the ISIS in Mosul, the Opposition protested alleging that the House was &quot;misled&quot; by the government, however, Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh defended the government&#39;s decision in Parliament as the ruckus led the Speaker to adjourn the House till Wednesday.

&quot;Of the 39 bodies, 27 were from Punjab and 4 belonged to Himachal, while 6 bodies belonged to Bihar, 1 body was from West Bengal,&quot; Sushma Swaraj told reporters.

&quot;1 body is yet to be identified,&quot; she added.&nbsp;

&quot;Long hair and a&nbsp;Sikh &quot;kada&quot; was recovered,&quot; the external affairs minister said while asserting that the government &quot;did not keep anyone in the dark.&quot;

 
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Sushma Swaraj informed reporters that minister of state for external affairs VK Singh would be going to Iraq to get the mortal remains of Indians in Mosul.

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Sushma Swaraj criticised the Congress for "politicising" the issue, declaring that Congress's behaviour in Parliament "condemnable".

After informing Parliament on the deaths of 39 Indians in Mosul, Iraq, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters that the bodies of Indians weren't found in mass graves but in a mound in Badush. "The bodies were buried in a mound in Badush," Sushma Swaraj said at a press conference. Sushma Swaraj criticised the Congress for "politicising" the issue, declaring that Congress's behaviour in Parliament "condemnable". "Congress had resorted to "hungama" in Parliament, she said, while asserting that the Upper House of Parliament had heard her patiently. "It was my duty to inform Parliament first," she said, adding that the Indian government did not want to declare the deaths of Indians in haste. Earlier, as Sushma Swaraj announced in Parliament on the fate of the missing Indians who were allegedly abducted by the ISIS in Mosul, the Opposition protested alleging that the House was "misled" by the government, however, Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh defended the government's decision in Parliament as the ruckus led the Speaker to adjourn the House till Wednesday. "Of the 39 bodies, 27 were from Punjab and 4 belonged to Himachal, while 6 bodies belonged to Bihar, 1 body was from West Bengal," Sushma Swaraj told reporters. "1 body is yet to be identified," she added. "Long hair and a Sikh "kada" was recovered," the external affairs minister said while asserting that the government "did not keep anyone in the dark." Sushma Swaraj informed reporters that minister of state for external affairs VK Singh would be going to Iraq to get the mortal remains of Indians in Mosul.

Government did not keep anyone in the dark over the death of 39 Indians in Mosul: Sushma Swaraj

The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-did-not-keep-anyone-in-the-dark-over-the-deaths-of-39-indians-in-mosul-sushma-swaraj-36505"> 39 kidnapped Indians,</a> who had gone missing in Iraq since 2014, are dead, external affairs minister<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/39-indians-missing-in-iraq-dead-sushma-swaraj-36459"> Sushma Swaraj </a>told the Rajya Sabha today. Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals.

After informing&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-information-was-given-to-us-sister-of-indian-killed-in-iraq-36478">Parliament</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/politics-over-deaths-shameful-sushma-swaraj-on-indians-killed-in-mosul-36498">&nbsp;on the deaths of 39 Indians in Mosu</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-information-was-given-to-us-sister-of-indian-killed-in-iraq-36478">l, Iraq</a>, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters that the bodies of Indians weren&#39;t found in mass graves but in a mound in Badush.

PM Modi condemned the incident and recently tweeted: &quot;MEA and particularly my colleagues Sushma Swaraj Ji and VK Singh Ji left no stone unturned in trying to trace and safely bring back those we lost in Mosul. Our Government remains fully committed towards ensuring the safety of our sisters and brothers overseas.&quot;

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The MEA and particularly my colleagues <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> Ji and <a href="https://twitter.com/Gen_VKSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gen_VKSingh</a> Ji left no stone unturned in trying to trace and safely bring back those we lost in Mosul. 
 
Our Government remains fully committed towards ensuring the safety of our sisters and brothers overseas.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/976072562621886465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Moreover,&nbsp;Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh wrote to Sushma Swaraj expressing his shock on the deaths of 39 Indians and has requested for financial assistance for families of the kin, informaing&nbsp;that 24 of those deceased were from Punjab and that Rs 20,000 were already being provided to the families by the government.

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Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh writes to EAM Sushma Swaraj expressing shock on the deaths of 39 Indians in Iraq, requests for financial assistance for families of the kin <a href="https://t.co/u2Y2A9X9a8">pic.twitter.com/u2Y2A9X9a8</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976058381948645382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The sister of Manjinder Singh, who was among the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/39-indians-missing-in-iraq-dead-sushma-swaraj-36459">39 Indians killed by the Islamic State</a>&nbsp;in Iraq, demanded the DNA reports of those killed, saying that the matter has been politicised, adding that the families should be been immediately contacted with the information.

Further, she criticised Swaraj and said that all she cared about was her reputation&nbsp;and had no ounce of sorrow over the loss of lives.

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We demand from govt to provide us DNA reports. It&#39;s being politicised. We had been running from pillar to post since 4 yrs &amp; now we&#39;re being told via TV that we lost one of our own: Gurpinder Kaur,sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq&#39;s Mosul <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> <a href="https://t.co/hWMp49ROSL">pic.twitter.com/hWMp49ROSL</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976050924727783424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yes, she was supposed to announce this in Parliament first but he was part of our family. All she cared about was her reputation. She used to say they&#39;re like her children, if that&#39;s the case where&#39;s her sorrow?: Gurpinder,sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed <a href="https://t.co/VGZyj9HvGY">pic.twitter.com/VGZyj9HvGY</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976060277237125120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kaur accused her of lying about the status of her brother and said: &quot;Why did she keep saying they&#39;re alive &amp; she&#39;ll bring them back? She could&#39;ve said she&#39;ll bring them back only if they&#39;re alive. I want to see DNA reports. We&#39;ll get answers only after meeting her&quot;.

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We should have been contacted as soon as they received the information. Had that been done it would not have been such a huge blow. We feel betrayed from all sides: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976060281301368833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile,&nbsp;Kamaljeet Kaur, wife of Roop Lal, who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq&#39;s Mosul, also expressed her distress over the news and said: &quot;He had left for Iraq 7 years ago. We last talked to each other in 2015. They had taken DNA samples 2-3 months back. I don&#39;t know what to say.&quot;&nbsp;

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He had left for Iraq 7 years ago. We last talked to each other in 2015. They had taken DNA samples 2-3 months back. I don&#39;t know what to say: Kamaljeet Kaur, wife of Roop Lal who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq&#39;s Mosul (Nakodar, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a>) <a href="https://t.co/8gDgC76mpX">pic.twitter.com/8gDgC76mpX</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976052354062737409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

After informing Parliament on the deaths of 39 Indians in Mosul, Iraq, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters that the bodies of Indians weren't found in mass graves but in a mound in Badush

The 39 kidnapped Indians, who had gone missing in Iraq since 2014, are dead, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told the Rajya Sabha today. Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals. After informing Parliament on the deaths of 39 Indians in Mosul, Iraq, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters that the bodies of Indians weren't found in mass graves but in a mound in Badush. PM Modi condemned the incident and recently tweeted: "MEA and particularly my colleagues Sushma Swaraj Ji and VK Singh Ji left no stone unturned in trying to trace and safely bring back those we lost in Mosul. Our Government remains fully committed towards ensuring the safety of our sisters and brothers overseas." The MEA and particularly my colleagues @SushmaSwaraj Ji and @Gen_VKSingh Ji left no stone unturned in trying to trace and safely bring back those we lost in Mosul. Our Government remains fully committed towards ensuring the safety of our sisters and brothers overseas. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2018 × Moreover, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh wrote to Sushma Swaraj expressing his shock on the deaths of 39 Indians and has requested for financial assistance for families of the kin, informaing that 24 of those deceased were from Punjab and that Rs 20,000 were already being provided to the families by the government. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh writes to EAM Sushma Swaraj expressing shock on the deaths of 39 Indians in Iraq, requests for financial assistance for families of the kin pic.twitter.com/u2Y2A9X9a8 — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × The sister of Manjinder Singh, who was among the 39 Indians killed by the Islamic State in Iraq, demanded the DNA reports of those killed, saying that the matter has been politicised, adding that the families should be been immediately contacted with the information. Further, she criticised Swaraj and said that all she cared about was her reputation and had no ounce of sorrow over the loss of lives. We demand from govt to provide us DNA reports. It's being politicised. We had been running from pillar to post since 4 yrs & now we're being told via TV that we lost one of our own: Gurpinder Kaur,sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq's Mosul #Amritsar pic.twitter.com/hWMp49ROSL — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × Yes, she was supposed to announce this in Parliament first but he was part of our family. All she cared about was her reputation. She used to say they're like her children, if that's the case where's her sorrow?: Gurpinder,sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed pic.twitter.com/VGZyj9HvGY — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × Kaur accused her of lying about the status of her brother and said: "Why did she keep saying they're alive & she'll bring them back? She could've said she'll bring them back only if they're alive. I want to see DNA reports. We'll get answers only after meeting her". We should have been contacted as soon as they received the information. Had that been done it would not have been such a huge blow. We feel betrayed from all sides: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × Meanwhile, Kamaljeet Kaur, wife of Roop Lal, who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq's Mosul, also expressed her distress over the news and said: "He had left for Iraq 7 years ago. We last talked to each other in 2015. They had taken DNA samples 2-3 months back. I don't know what to say." He had left for Iraq 7 years ago. We last talked to each other in 2015. They had taken DNA samples 2-3 months back. I don't know what to say: Kamaljeet Kaur, wife of Roop Lal who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq's Mosul (Nakodar, #Punjab) pic.twitter.com/8gDgC76mpX — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 ×

'We demand govt to provide DNA reports' families of 39 killed in Iraq express angst

&nbsp;National Conference leader Omar Abdullah today said it was &quot;unpardonable&quot; that the families of 39 Indians, killed in captivity in Iraq, had to learn about their heartbreaking loss from television channels instead of the government.

&quot;Nothing Govt of India says can make up for the sheer heartlessness displayed today. Using Parliament as an excuse for the families of 39 dead Indians having to learn of their heartbreaking loss from TV channels is unpardonable (sic),&quot; Omar said in a tweet.

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Nothing Govt of India says can make up for the sheer heartlessness displayed today. Using Parliament as an excuse for the families of 39 dead Indians having to learn of their heartbreaking loss from TV channels is unpardonable.
&mdash; Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/976051772283334656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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All the 39 Indians, who were abducted by the ISIS in Iraq nearly three years ago, were killed and their bodies have been recovered, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said today.

As many as 40 Indians were originally abducted by the terrorist organisation from Mosul in Iraq but one of them escaped by posing as a Muslim from Bangladesh, Swaraj said in a suo motu statement in Rajya Sabha.

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Senior people in MEA, if not the Minister &amp; her junior minister themselves, should have spoken to each of the 39 families before the news of the deaths was made public.
&mdash; Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/976052278149906432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The remaining 39 Indians were taken to Badoosh and killed.

Abdullah said senior officials in the Ministry of External Affairs should have personally informed each of the 39 families before the news was made public.

&quot;Senior people in MEA, if not the Minister &amp; her junior minister themselves, should have spoken to each of the 39 families before the news of the deaths was made public,&quot; he tweeted.

All the 39 Indians, who were abducted by the ISIS in Iraq nearly three years ago, were killed and their bodies have been recovered, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah today said it was "unpardonable" that the families of 39 Indians, killed in captivity in Iraq, had to learn about their heartbreaking loss from television channels instead of the government. "Nothing Govt of India says can make up for the sheer heartlessness displayed today. Using Parliament as an excuse for the families of 39 dead Indians having to learn of their heartbreaking loss from TV channels is unpardonable (sic)," Omar said in a tweet. Nothing Govt of India says can make up for the sheer heartlessness displayed today. Using Parliament as an excuse for the families of 39 dead Indians having to learn of their heartbreaking loss from TV channels is unpardonable. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 20, 2018 × All the 39 Indians, who were abducted by the ISIS in Iraq nearly three years ago, were killed and their bodies have been recovered, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said today. As many as 40 Indians were originally abducted by the terrorist organisation from Mosul in Iraq but one of them escaped by posing as a Muslim from Bangladesh, Swaraj said in a suo motu statement in Rajya Sabha. Senior people in MEA, if not the Minister & her junior minister themselves, should have spoken to each of the 39 families before the news of the deaths was made public. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 20, 2018 × The remaining 39 Indians were taken to Badoosh and killed. Abdullah said senior officials in the Ministry of External Affairs should have personally informed each of the 39 families before the news was made public. "Senior people in MEA, if not the Minister & her junior minister themselves, should have spoken to each of the 39 families before the news of the deaths was made public," he tweeted.

'Families learning about deaths in Mosul from TV is unpardonable,' says Omar Abdullah

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