After months of delay, the administration of President Barack Obama is taking major steps engage the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as part of a broader regional strategy designed in major part to isolate Iran, escalate the fight against al-Qaeda and other radical Sunni groups, and encourage peace talks with Israel. Wednesday’s meeting in …
Continue reading “US Starts Syria Normalization Process in Earnest “
In 1914 Michael Zataney, born in the village of Zgharta in what is now Lebanon, lived in Birmingham, Ala., and looked forward to becoming an American citizen. The Zataney family left what geographers call "Greater Syria" to escape the oppression of the Ottoman Turks who had ruled the area for 400 years. Culturally diverse and …
Continue reading “Ironic Intervention: A Lebanese Doughboy in World War I”
At least two Iraqis were killed and six more were wounded in light prayer day violence. Also, a U.S. soldier died of non-combat injuries; the death is under investigation. Meanwhile, Tony Blair testified at the Iraq Inquiry, two American tourists were arrested in Mosul, and the southern clans may boycott upcoming elections.
Although casualties were light today—at least 13 Iraqis were killed and 15 were wounded—a number of important stories made the headlines. Among them is the announcement of Tony Blair’s appearance at the Iraq Inquiry. Meanwhile, a U.S. soldier was found guilty of cruelty, while the Iraqi government moved ahead with plans to sue a U.S. …
Continue reading “Monday: 13 Iraqis Killed, 15 Wounded”
Updated at 8:50 p.m. EST, Dec. 14, 2009
At least eight Iraqis were killed and 32 more were wounded in the latest violence. One small attack took place last week, but the delayed account highlights the difficulties in reporting casualties in the war-torn country. Meanwhile, female servicemembers who have returned home to the United States report having difficulties transitioning back into society. Also, Iran says it will try three American hikers who crossed into the country from Iraq, and new details arose from an investigation into the Bloody Tuesday bombings.
Updated at 3:59 p.m. EST, Dec. 10, 2009
Although only three Iraqis were killed and 11 more were wounded in the latest reports, there were other significant developments coming out of Iraq. Tuesday’s bloody bombings in Baghdad continued to dominate the news from various angles, but the closing of Camp Ashraf could soon take the attack’s place in the headlines. One U.S. soldier was also killed as U.S. Secretary Gates dropped in on Iraqi officials.
Updated at 10:15 p.m. EST, Dec. 9, 2009
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki asked for patience following yesterday’s massive bombings in Baghdad. The attacks continued today, but they were not as successful. At least 11 Iraqis were killed and 28 more were wounded in the new violence.
Updated at 8:55 p.m. EST, Nov. 24, 2009
The Independent High Electoral Commission warned that it would not set a new election date until the debate over the elections law is over. At least six Iraqis were killed and 11 more were wounded in light violence.
Figures from yesterday’s bombings in Karbala climbed overnight adding to today’s toll. Overall, at least 10 Iraqis were killed and 30 more were wounded across the country. Meanwhile, the Turkish prime minister is visiting Baghdad. Also, Malaysian police have arrested MP Mohammad al-Dayni on terrorism charges.
Updated at 5:10 p.m. EDT, Sept. 17, 2009
At least five Iraqis were killed and 21 more were wounded in the latest attacks. Also, Turkey’s foreign minister urged Iraq and Syria to work together against terrorism.
