Full state control of armed groups ‘critical’ to Iraq security: Former US official | Rudaw
1 min readasia
Full state control of armed groups ‘critical’ to Iraq security: Former US official | Rudaw
Summary:
- The interview centers on Iraq’s push to place all armed groups under state control, a move seen as essential for national security and regional stability.
- Former US official Barbara Leaf (via Rudaw) praises Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi for taking first steps toward integrating militias into state authority, noting political risk and the need for sustained execution.
- Sadr’s sudden disarmament and commitment to folding his Saraya al-Salam into state structures pr
Keep reading
security
Ghana and EU sign landmark defence deal to combat militant Islamist threat - Graphic Online
Ghana and EU sign a landmark defence pact to bolster counterterrorism, border and maritime security, marking Ghana as the first African country to strike such an agreement with the EU. Key details: - Signed in Accra by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Ghana’s Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. - Agreement aims to enhance counterterrorism, cybersecurity, border security, and maritime security; includes provision of military support (drones, anti-drone systems, bo
security
India’s road through Myanmar is one of engagement - The Hindu
India’s approach to Myanmar, as discussed in The Hindu op-ed, emphasizes pragmatic engagement over sanctions. Key points: - High-stakes diplomacy: India hosted Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing (May 30–June 3, 2026) as a signal of deepening ties, reflecting Myanmar’s strategic importance to India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policy. - Realpolitik rationale: Myanmar is India’s gateway to Southeast Asia and a buffer against China’s influence; instability there directly
security
[Interview] Iceland’s ex-foreign minister on EU referendum, as war and Arctic tension reshape Europe – EUobserver
Iceland’s potential EU accession referendum (Aug. date) frames policy around geopolitics, economy, and security. Ex-foreign minister Thórdís Kolbrún Gylfadóttir emphasizes: - Geopolitical shifts and US dynamics increasingly shape Iceland’s economic debate, including tariffs and security considerations. - Iceland has no standing army and, though NATO founding, is relatively insulated from direct defence but would feel effects from European conflict at sea or regional ruptures.