Iraq

However, as the US seeks to put on a positive face regarding the incoming prime minister, the US is also announcing new rewards for information on several key Iraqi militia leaders.

Iraq acquires anti-drone systems for Baghdad's protection but excludes Kurdistan, leaving the region exposed to ongoing militia strikes and escalating violence.

“At a pivotal moment in the process of supporting the stability of global energy markets, the UAE adopted a long-term strategic and economic vision,” one report says.

Israel and Kurdistan face shared adversaries, raising questions about new alliances as old Middle East borders weaken and fragment.

The real story of Zaidi is that he is largely unknown and appears to have been chosen almost by chance, as if Iraq’s politicians simply settled on a random figure to lead the country.

On April 24, the United States also offered a $10m. reward for Hishim Finyan Rahim al-Saraji, known as Abu Ala al-Walai, the head of Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, an Iraqi paramilitary group.

The US-Iran talks are now tied to wider regional issues. For instance, Iran wanted a ceasefire in Lebanon. The US wants to see Iranian support for proxies ended.

The US has halted $500M in dollar shipments to Iraq and frozen military cooperation programs, demanding Baghdad dismantle Iranian-backed militias in response to militia attacks.

It has been five months since Iraq had an election in November, 2025. However, the parties can’t agree on a prime minister.

The poisoned chalice is not forced; it is chosen when there is no other option left.