Iraq

Some see his nomination as a bid to buy time until the US-Iran war outcome becomes clearer, which could very well shift political calculations in Iraq

As the US-Iran war intensifies, it has drawn in non-state actors across the region. While Baghdad says it is not a party to the conflict, militias have stepped in on Tehran's side.

Powerful militias have usurped the state's authority by opening a war front to support Iran. At this critical juncture, Iraq needs statesmen willing to put the state first.

New fronts have opened up across the region in light of the US-Israeli war on Iran, as non-state actors with links to Tehran fear for their futures

They show that King Abdullah tried his best to blunt the blow of a US-led invasion by offering a diplomatic off-ramp to avert catastrophe

Their success in Iraq's recent elections has less to do with genuine public support and more to do with vote buying through the massive wealth they've accrued through power

A revised electoral law and the fragmentation of civil groups contributed to an election result that saw no clear parliamentary majority and the return of established parties

He will be expected to play an active role in getting Iraq to disband armed factions, as pressure from Washington is expected to intensify

Iraqi sculptor's epic wall-mounted installations evoke the destruction of Aleppo and Mosul, displayed in Beirut in the shadow of ongoing genocide in Gaza.

Baghdad wants good relations with Washington, but its ties with Tehran run deep. Under increased pressure, it may have to pick a side once and for all.