Iraq | June 26, 2024, 4:05 p.m.
"Iranian-backed Militants in Iraq and Yemen Target Israeli Sites with Fresh Assaults"
Iranian-backed terrorist groups in Iraq and Yemen launched fresh attacks on Israeli targets, increasing the risk of a wider regional conflict. On June 26, a drone attack by the Iranian-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq targeted Eilat in Israel. Simultaneously, Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for an attack on a Liberian-flagged vessel in the Red Sea, they deemed "Israeli." These coordinated attacks highlight Iran's strategy of pressuring Israel through its proxies while Hamas is being defeated in Gaza. Experts warn that these multi-front assaults are part of a broader Iranian-backed offensive to hinder Israel's military focus. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has cautioned that the region is approaching a critical point with potential implications for the entire Middle East. As tensions escalate, the possibility of a war with Hezbollah in Lebanon looms, emphasizing the need to de-escalate the Iranian-backed aggression to prevent further conflict.
"Iraq Achieves Major Milestone in Foreign Investment Boost with Signing of Singapore Convention [English/Arabic]"
Iraq celebrated its recent signing of the United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation, known as the "Singapore Convention," in a move aimed at attracting foreign investors. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, a high-profile conference on mediation was hosted by the United Nations Development Programme and the National Investment Commission of Iraq. The country is focused on creating a welcoming environment for global investors, with a commitment to progressive reforms and combating corruption. By signing the Singapore Convention, Iraq has taken a significant step towards easing enforcement of mediated settlement agreements, fostering international trade and commerce. With support from the European Union, UNDP is working on initiatives to strengthen commercial dispute resolution in Iraq, paving the way for foreign investment. The hope is that Iraq's accession to the Convention will enhance its attractiveness as a secure and favorable destination for international business, promoting economic growth and stability.
"CPJ Urges Release of Syrian Journalist Held on Espionage Charge in Kurdistan Region, Iraq"
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is urging Iraqi Kurdish authorities to release Syrian journalist Sleman Ahmed, who has been detained for eight months on charges of espionage. Ahmed, a journalist for the PKK-affiliated RojNews, was arrested at the Syrian border and is facing possible life imprisonment under Article 1 of Law No. 21 of 2003. Despite facing restrictions in accessing legal representation, his trial is set for June 30. CPJ and MENA Rights Group have called on the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances to clarify Ahmed's whereabouts, as he was missing for six months. RojNews has condemned the charge as a plot to imprison Ahmed and demands his immediate release. This case echoes the plight of other Kurdish journalists unjustly jailed for up to six years under similar charges. International organizations have criticized the Kurdistan Regional Government's treatment of journalists, with Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders ranking Iraq 169 out of 180 countries in press freedom.
Report: Biden Considering Allowing US Defense Contractors to Deploy to Ukraine with Restrictions, Unlike Previous Deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan
The Biden administration is considering a plan that would allow US military contractors to deploy to Ukraine for maintenance and repair of US-supplied systems. This move, if approved, would be a significant departure from previous policies and could involve up to 200 contractors at a time. The plan aims to address logistical challenges in keeping equipment functioning and ready for defense, particularly for critical artillery and aircraft like F-16s. This proposal, which has not yet been finalized, underscores a shift in US support for Ukraine and could potentially ease pressure on US maintenance support operations. While President Biden has historically been hesitant to involve American troops directly in Ukraine, this new plan could provide crucial maintenance support without increasing the risk of direct military involvement.
"Why You Should Stop Taking Advice from David Petraeus"
David Petraeus continues to position himself as a military genius and offers Israeli leaders advice based on his perceived successes in Iraq. In a recent article, Petraeus, along with two co-authors, suggests that Israeli actions against Palestinians are a necessary response to terrorism, drawing parallels with American tactics in Iraq. However, their recommendations focus on military control rather than protecting civilian lives, raising concerns about the Israeli government's intentions. The authors emphasize the importance of the "clear and hold" and "build and revive" strategies used in Iraq, but fail to address the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Petraeus overlooks the failures of American interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, painting a one-sided picture of success. His self-serving recommendations for a clear end-game disregard the need for diplomatic solutions in resolving the ongoing violence in Gaza. Ultimately, Petraeus's article reflects a dangerous glorification of war and a lack of understanding of the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is time to shift away from militaristic solutions and towards diplomatic efforts to end the unjust war.
'Israeli Defense Forces Prepare for Conflict in Northern Border Amid Rising Threats from Iranian Proxies in Iraq and Yemen'
Israeli troops from the 55th Reserve Paratrooper Brigade conducted intensive military exercises in northern Israel, attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi. These drills are part of ongoing preparations for a potential conflict with Hezbollah, with various units undergoing eight months of rigorous training. During the exercises, President Isaac Herzog visited northern communities, including Safed and areas near the Lebanese border, reaffirming Israel's commitment to security in the region. Netanyahu praised the 55th Brigade's performance, emphasizing the importance of readiness and coordination in the face of complex threats. The IDF's training programs in the north aim to enhance capabilities for combat in mountainous terrain and urban environments, reflecting the evolving security challenges Israel faces. Recent incidents involving Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Yemen highlight the broader regional threats Israel is navigating. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's meetings in Washington focus on bolstering US support amid escalating tensions with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. With an eye on the volatile Middle East landscape, Israel remains vigilant and prepared for any scenario that may arise.
Gulf of Aden Ship Targeted in Suspected Houthi Attack with Iraqi Claims on Eilat Attack - Latest News
Houthi rebels conducted missile and drone attacks in the Gulf of Aden and Eilat, targeting a ship and the Israeli port city. These attacks come after the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower left following eight months responding to Houthi assaults. The Houthis' campaign has disrupted crucial shipping routes, linking Asian, Middle Eastern, and European markets, as well as targeting vessels associated with Israel, the US, and Britain. Evidence suggests the rebels seized planes transporting pilgrims from Hajj, escalating economic tensions with Yemen's exiled government. As Houthi attacks persist, Iran-backed militants claim joint operations against Israel. The rebels' actions have led to fatalities and vessel seizures, prompting a US-led airstrike campaign. Moreover, they face accusations of counterfeiting and economic misconduct, intensifying discord with the exiled government. The Houthis' actions threaten regional stability and security, necessitating a coordinated response.
"Andrew Cockburn: Uncovering the Truth Behind Iraq Meddling"
In his book 'The Achilles Trap', Steve Coll delves into the long history of foreign manipulation of Iraq's domestic affairs, dating back to the 1920s when Gertrude Bell worked behind the scenes. Saddam Hussein's suspicions of British and American intelligence services were well-founded, as they continually misread him and failed to anticipate his actions. Saddam's rule was characterized by brutal repression and the lavish distribution of oil wealth, while his family members engaged in violence and murder. Despite his tyrannical rule, Saddam had a complex personality and literary aspirations, publishing numerous works during his time in power. The US's involvement in Iraq's affairs, including supplying vital intelligence during the Iran-Iraq war and turning a blind eye to Saddam's use of chemical weapons, ultimately led to the disastrous invasion and occupation of Iraq in 2003. Despite later revelations that Saddam had destroyed his WMDs in 1991, the US pushed for regime change, eventually leading to the Iraq War under George W. Bush based on false claims of WMDs.
"Kurdistan Region of Iraq Set to Conduct Parliamentary Election on October 20th after Delay"
The semi-autonomous Kurdistan region of northern Iraq will hold parliamentary elections on Oct. 20 after delays caused by a boycott from the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). Originally set for 2022, the elections were postponed to June 10 due to a federal supreme court ruling that canceled seats reserved for minority groups. The ruling also changed the electoral system from a single-constituency to four constituencies. Following a new ruling in late May restoring some minority seats, tension eased and the KDP agreed to participate in the upcoming elections. The October vote will elect 100 lawmakers and a president for the Kurdish region, which gained self-rule in 1991. This development marks a significant step towards democratic governance in the Kurdistan region and demonstrates progress in resolving disputes over electoral representation.
"Iraq Authorities Refute Claims of Hamas Office Opening in Baghdad"
Iraq's government denies reports of Hamas moving its political leadership to the country from Qatar, despite claims from Iranian-linked factions. Sources revealed Hamas's preference for Iraq over Turkey due to close relations with Iran and being an Arab country. US warnings against dealing with Hamas came amid pressure to secure a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict. Iraqi government's denial of the move contrasts with statements from Iran-backed groups welcoming Hamas. Hamas had discussions with Tehran about leaving Qatar in March, with plans to retain some representation in Doha. Hamas security and logistics teams prepared for the move to Baghdad, where they had opened a representative office. Despite mixed messages from different factions in Iraq, the country remains a potential refuge for Hamas amid international scrutiny and pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza.