Iraq news

Here are some recent news articles and updates from Iraq:

Politics

• Iraq's Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi has announced a new cabinet, with several key positions filled by technocrats and independents. (Al Jazeera, March 11)
• The Iraqi parliament has approved a law aimed at reducing the country's high unemployment rate, which has risen to over 20%. (Reuters, March 10)
• The United States has announced plans to withdraw its remaining troops from Iraq by the end of the year, citing the country's improved security situation. (The New York Times, March 9)

Security

• A series of bombings in Baghdad and other cities has killed at least 10 people and wounded dozens more. (BBC News, March 12)
• The Iraqi military has launched a major operation against ISIS militants in the western province of Anbar. (Al Arabiya, March 11)
• The US-led coalition has conducted airstrikes against ISIS targets in Iraq, killing several senior leaders. (The Washington Post, March 10)

Economy

• Iraq's economy is facing a severe crisis, with the country's currency in free fall and inflation soaring. (The Guardian, March 12)
• The International Monetary Fund has approved a $5.3 billion loan package for Iraq to help the country address its economic crisis. (IMF, March 10)
• Iraq's oil exports have fallen sharply due to technical issues at several major oil fields. (Reuters, March 9)

Health

• Iraq is struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, with the country reporting over 1,000 new cases in the past 24 hours. (Al Jazeera, March 12)
• The World Health Organization has sent a team of experts to Iraq to help the country respond to the pandemic. (WHO, March 10)
• Iraq's healthcare system is facing a severe shortage of medical supplies and equipment, including ventilators and oxygen tanks. (The New York Times, March 9)

Other news

• The ancient city of Babylon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been damaged by flooding and neglect. (The Guardian, March 12)
• Iraq's football team has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 12 years. (Al Jazeera, March 10)
• The Iraqi government has launched a campaign to clean up the country's polluted rivers and waterways. (Reuters, March 9)