PKK says Turkey ‘must understand’ peace process not progressing ‘unilaterally’

The Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK), the political umbrella group of the PKK, on Thursday criticized the Turkish government for not taking the necessary steps to ensure the success of the peace process.

Iraq's PMF to distribute new payment cards as US sanctions delay salaries

Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) will start giving out new payment cards to members on Friday to allow their salaries to be paid, coming as US pressure on pro-Iran elements in Iraq has hampered standard salary disbursement arrangements.

Tourism a 'real alternative' to Iraq's oil sector dependence: Economist

Iraqi economist Manar al-Obaidi said the country's tourism sector is growing fast and could replace oil as the country’s main source of income, calling for more focus on building tourism infrastructure to diversify Iraq's revenue sources.

Two Fronts, One Strategy: Baghdad’s Campaign Against Kurdistan

The Iraqi government's ongoing denial of funds to Erbil, meddling in its oil sector, and convenient ignorance of a wave of attacks perpetrated in the Kurdistan Region are not only indicative of hostility to the Region's government but also a callous display of enmity toward Iraq's Kurdish citizenry.

Trump imposes 30 percent tariffs on Iraq

US President Donald Trump called Washington's trade relationship with Iraq "far from reciprocal" and announced the imposition of a 30 percent tariff on Iraqi exports to the US starting on August 1.

Committee to address Erbil-Baghdad disputes holds first meeting

The new committee, formed following an Iraqi Council of Ministers session on Tuesday, will examine the issues of the Kurdistan Region's civil servant salaries and oil exports and submit recommendations ahead of a final decision.

Iraqi lawmakers do not expect parliamentary sessions to be held in final legislative term

The Iraqi Parliament is not likely to hold its upcoming sessions during the final legislative term, several MPs told The New Region. Many lawmakers are busy with early campaigning and political disagreements have disrupted parliamentary workings, causing meetings to be canceled due to lack of attendance.

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Dying waters: Climate change forces Iraq’s marsh families into urban struggle

Once thriving on the rich ecosystems of Iraq’s southern marshes, families like that of Naji Arhim have been uprooted by severe drought and water shortages. Generations of fishermen and buffalo herders have seen their lands turn to dust, pushing them into cities where their traditional skills no longer apply.

Critics say free speech under attack in Iraq's Anbar province

As elections approach, activists, civil servants, and tribal leaders in Iraq’s Anbar province report arrests, forced transfers, and online surveillance of citizens criticizing the ruling Taqaddum party.

After years of tribal conflicts, Dhi Qar sees decline in violence

After years of tribal conflicts, Iraq’s Dhi Qar province has seen a sharp decline in violence, with only 25 disputes recorded in early 2025 compared to 158 in 2023.

Iraq’s provincial councils face criticism after 2023 return

Since their reinstatement in 2023, Iraq’s provincial councils have failed to deliver meaningful results, instead becoming scenes of political conflict, legal disputes, and public frustration.

Gold mines in Iran’s Kurdish regions: Between riches and sorrows

The gold-rich Kurdish regions of western Iran grapple with the serious environmental and health consequences arising from mining the precious commodity, launching a campaign to stop the drilling which has seen elevated instances of cancer and the destruction of local flora and fauna.

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