Power struggles between factionalized security forces in northern Iraq have left security gaps that insurgents continue to exploit.
Iraqi security forces are beginning a multi-day operation targeting a recent tide of violence in Basra province.
Once a proud symbol of military partnership with the U.S., Iraq's F-16 fleet can no longer fly combat missions.
The financial crisis continues to compound the pandemic as Iraq faces a shortage of oxygen, supplies, and health care professionals.
New federal forces have deployed in a campaign to wrest control of border crossings from parties, paramilitary groups, and mafias.
The government is seeking stopgap solutions to major blackouts that have sparked protests in southern Iraq.
Financial constraints and OPEC cuts led to oil sector layoffs and protests that briefly shut down access to Missan province's largest field.
Local authorities are preoccupied with the pandemic and hampered by tangled power structures, prompting the prime minister to pursue a new security strategy.
Seeking to combat an exponential rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases, government measures are also disrupting oil and security operations.
The World Health Organization is still guardedly optimistic Iraq can avoid a coronavirus catastrophe, despite Iraq's poor mask compliance and perhaps premature end to its lockdown.
