Iraq and Iran both commemorated the third anniversary of the assassination of Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis as the year kicked off with new assassinations and recriminations.

The justification given for attacks by Iran-backed militias on US bases in Iraq and Syria is America's continued support for Israel in its war on Gaza.

In his recently published novel '105 Days in IS Prisons', Mohammed Al-Attar details the destruction of Mosul's social fabric at the hands of both IS and PMF forces

In his award-winning novel, the Iraqi-French author explores the contemporary history of Iraq over more than half a century and the events that led Iraq to where it is now.

The smuggling industry is worth hundreds of millions of dollars annually, and few alternatives exist to earn a living in the area. Border guards are trigger-happy, and calls for change are ignored.

Engaged political participation needs voters to feel they can instil change and appoint governments capable of serving the national interest. Baghdad is some ways far from that.

As pressure mounts in the US to "do more" to deter attacks allegedly backed by Iran, Iraqi armed factions seem ever more divided.

The prime minister in Baghdad must deal with the demands of the US, Iran and armed groups at home, while trying to prioritise his own national interests. Here's a three-option plan on how he can.

Artists like Pablo Picasso, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Arthur Rimbaud and Imru' al-Qais made a long-lasting impact in their youth. Why, then, does the Arab world shun new voices?

Rhetoric and internal political manoeuvring need to be put to one side, and the prime minister must deliver tangible improvements to the everyday quality of life for millions of Iraqis.