[Published here May 24, 2020]
It was supposed to be Basma’s big year: a degree, language certification and maybe a master’s abroad. But local protests and a global pandemic threw the Iraqi student’s plans off-course.
Author: Maya Gebeily
As new Iraq PM takes helm, public salaries on chopping block | AFP
[Published here on May 7, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – With its financial outlook darkening by the day, Iraq is considering slashing its massive public payroll — an unpopular move likely to renew protests as a new government takes the helm.
Iraq gets new government amid fiscal, coronavirus crises | AFP
[Published here on May 6, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – Mustafa Kadhemi took office as Iraq’s premier early Thursday after breaking months of political deadlock, taking the reins amid a staggering economic crisis, a health pandemic and the spectre of renewed protests.
Iran-US tensions climb down in Iraq — for now | AFP
[Published here April 19, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – It has been weeks since Iran-backed factions in Iraq traded fire with US forces, but experts warn the rivals could be using the time to prepare for an escalation.
Iraq’s new PM-elect Kadhemi, spy chief with friends on all sides | AFP
[Published here April 9, 2020]
Spy chief Mustafa Kadhemi, the third candidate this year for Iraq’s premiership, is a pragmatic operator whose ties to Washington and Tehran could help to steer Baghdad through multiple crises.
As prices fall, what are the threats to oil giant Iraq? | AFP
[Published here on April 2, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – As crude prices plunge, Iraq’s oil sector is facing a triple threat that has slashed revenues, risks denting production and may spell trouble for future exports.
Iraq faces financial calamity after crude crash | AFP
[Published here March 19, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – Between plummeting oil prices, political deadlock and reduced global appetite for a bail-out, Iraq is on the cusp of financial calamity that could force austerity measures and renew anti-government protests.
Iraq’s PM-designate Adnan Zurfi, Shiite moderate with US ties | AFP
[Published here March 17, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – Adnan Zurfi, Iraq’s second premier-designate this year, is respected for focussing on public services and security but faces resistance from factions wary of his close ties with the United States.
Irked US squeezes Iraq with cash delays, short waivers | AFP
[Published here February 15, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – Irked by Iraq’s close ties to neighbouring Iran, Washington has begun following through on threats to squeeze Baghdad’s fragile economy with delays to crucial cash deliveries and shortened sanctions waivers.
In Iraq, protesters in last stand against a former ally | AFP
[Published here February 7, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – They once stood side by side against tear gas and bullets, protesting together against Iraq’s government. But after cleric Moqtada Sadr’s followers switched sides, young activists feel vulnerable and betrayed.
“We used to distribute food to their protest tents in the first days of the demonstrations — and this is how they treat us?” said Mona, a medic and activist in Baghdad.
MAYA GEBEILY 