Shiites

Ali R. Abootalebi | (Informed Comment) | – – The Sunni-Shi’a schism provides for different narrative and prescriptions for arriving at the ‘utopian Islamic society’ and the incoming of the Messiah, al-Mahdi. The theological, doctrinal and jurisprudential differences between the two main branches of Islam has translated into two different visions on the role of […]

Hizbullah

Lebanon PM Hariri Resigns in fear for Life, Slamming Iran

contributors

Long known for Saudi Ties, Hariri Accuses Tehran of trying to Destroy Arab World

Iraq

Iraq: How Youtube & Facebook Fake News Raised Kurdish-Shiite Tensions

Juan Cole

By Histyar Qader | Erbil | (Niqash.org) | – – After clashes in northern Iraq this week, hundreds of fake pictures have flooded Iraqi social media. Some are real, some not, but leaders on both sides say it’s leading to a dangerous escalation of tensions. Given the partisan nature of much of the media funding […]

Donald Trump

Iraqi PM Rebukes Tillerson on Popular Mobilization Militia

contributors

TeleSur | – – “Popular Mobilisation fighters should be encouraged because they will be the hope of country and the region,” Abadi said. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has defended the role of his country’s Popular Mobilization Forces, or Hashd al-Sha’abi, following a statement by U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson that members of the […]

Iraq

Alarmed Kurdistan forces Mobilized at Kirkuk as Iraqi troops said to Mass on Border

contributors

Kurds say Shiite militias heading for Kirkuk

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia: Official Hate Speech Targets Minorities

Juan Cole

Shiites, others, demonized by official clerics

Donald Trump

Iranian Leader: Trump is “Disturbed,” speaks like a Cowboy or Mobster

Juan Cole

Iran president: if Trump reneges on nuclear deal, no one will ever trust the US again

Elections

Can Iran keep its Influence in Baghdad?

Juan Cole

Divisions in the Da`wa Party and Iraqi Nationalism pose Challenges to Tehran

Featured

Al-Sadr in Jidda: Are Saudis looking for channel to Iran, or anti-Iran Client?

Juan Cole

By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) | – – Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Sunday paid a visit to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea port, Jidda, at the invitation of the Saudi royal family. He was hosted by Crown Prince Muhmmad bin Salman, who is acting head of state while his father is on vacation. […]