Politics

Political disunity clouds KRG fiscal and energy outlooks

Deadlocked talks over forming a new regional Cabinet highlight a bitter rivalry between two ruling parties that poses risks to Kurdistan's economy and energy sector.

PUK President Bafel Talabni (left) meets with KDP President Massoud Barzani (right) on Sept. 27, 2025. (Photo credit: KDP presidency office)

Jul 31, 2009

Parliament on holiday without January’s election law

Instead of culminating in the grand finale that some had expected after a one-month extension, the first term of the Iraqi parliament in 2009 simply fizzled out.

Jul 30, 2009

Maliki’s Iraq

The Iraqi prime minister and the American vice president, who now heads up the Iraq portfolio, swapped state visits, but little has changed for Iraqis.

Jul 25, 2009

Major turnout in contested Kurdish election

Despite glitches, election deemed a success with large voter turnout in what is a major stakes election for Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government.

Jul 17, 2009

Kurds seek new political opposition

Vote next week sets stage for possible new opposition to KDP and PUK, parties which now dominate politics in Iraq's north.

Jul 17, 2009

Desertification destroys Ninawa villages

Whole villages in Ninawa province are being abandoned as a result of drought and increasing desertification which is making life impossible for those who remain on the once arable land.

Jul 15, 2009

Iraqis relieved at American exit

City dwellers recall experiences of retreating US military with bitterness and, occasionally, admiration.

Jul 15, 2009

Fallujans’ faith in local justice renewed

Residents pleased to see restoration of local court after putting up with years of so-called tribal justice.

Jul 15, 2009

Biden, US Policy in Iraq and the Concept of Muhasasa

On 27 February this year, President Barack Obama held one of the best speeches on Iraq delivered by a US senior official for a long time. Obama congratulated the Iraqis for having resisted the forces of partition, and while he noted the need for political reconciliation, he pretty much refrained from imposing his own interpretation […]

Jul 9, 2009

KRG presidential candidates

Four challengers to current KRG President Massoud Barzani add to the intense campaigning in Iraqi Kurdistan ahead of the July 25 vote.

Jul 9, 2009

Despite hardships, smuggling persists

New border crossing between Iraq and Iran doesn't quell the black market where smuggling is the only job to be found.