Politics

Analysis: Worsening internal rivalries weaken KRG at key political juncture

Conflict between the KDP and PUK has driven dysfunction in Erbil and weakened Kurdish influence in Baghdad as a new government takes power.

Bafel Talabani, president of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (left), meets with newly elected Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi (right), in Baghdad in May 2026. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

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.

Jul 8, 2009

Kurdish women political voice unheard

Despite minimum gender requirements in Parliament, the majority women population remain disenfranchised and sidelined.

Jul 8, 2009

Unification in Najaf

The holy city of Najaf is seeing a developing unity between intellectuals and government officials.