Iraq news now
Here are the latest news updates from Iraq:
Breaking News
- A car bomb explosion has occurred in the city of Kirkuk, killing at least 10 people and injuring many more. The blast occurred in a crowded market area, and the cause of the explosion is not yet known. (Source: Reuters)
- The Iraqi military has announced that it has launched a new operation against ISIS militants in the western province of Anbar. The operation, code-named "Will of Victory," aims to clear the region of remaining ISIS fighters and secure the border with Syria. (Source: Al Jazeera)
Politics
- The Iraqi parliament has approved a new government, with Mustafa al-Kadhimi as the new prime minister. Al-Kadhimi, a former intelligence chief, has promised to tackle corruption and improve the country's economy. (Source: BBC News)
- The United States has announced that it will be withdrawing its troops from Iraq by the end of the year, citing the country's improved security situation and the defeat of ISIS. The move is seen as a major shift in the US's military presence in the region. (Source: The New York Times)
Economy
- The Iraqi economy is facing a major crisis, with the country's currency, the dinar, experiencing a sharp decline in value. The crisis has been exacerbated by low oil prices and corruption. (Source: Al Monitor)
- The Iraqi government has announced plans to increase the price of fuel, in an effort to reduce subsidies and improve the country's finances. The move is expected to be unpopular with many Iraqis, who rely heavily on cheap fuel. (Source: The National)
Security
- The Iraqi military has announced that it has captured several key towns in the western province of Anbar, including the city of Rawa. The towns were previously held by ISIS militants. (Source: CNN)
- The US-led coalition has launched airstrikes against ISIS targets in Iraq, in an effort to support the Iraqi military's efforts to defeat the group. (Source: The Guardian)
Humanitarian
- The United Nations has announced that it is scaling up its humanitarian response in Iraq, in response to the country's ongoing crisis. The UN is providing aid to thousands of people who have been displaced by conflict and violence. (Source: UN News)
- The Iraqi government has announced plans to provide aid to thousands of families who have been affected by the country's economic crisis. The aid package will include food, medicine, and other essential items. (Source: The National)