Topic: Sons of Iraq

19 killed in suicide bombing targeting government-linked Shiite militia

The attack – the seventh suicide bombing in a month – seems to be an attempt by Sunni insurgents to destabilize Iraq's Shiite-led government.

Afghanistan: The challenge of 'good' vs 'bad' militias

Gunmen in northern Afghanistan want the Karzai government to make their local unit an official part of the security force that will take over after US withdraws. 

Backchannels Iraq's exiled vice president sentenced to death as violence grows

In an interview before he was sentenced to death in absentia, Iraqi Vice President Tariq al-Hashemi warned Iraq is on a slippery slope to more violence.

Backchannels Iraq's ominous trendline of violence

Terrorism is up in Iraq, as are political tensions.

Iraq's Sunni-Shiite tensions have long been building

A trawl through US diplomatic cables released by Wikileaks this year shows growing alarm over Iraq's political divides.

Withdrawal from Afghanistan: Three options weighed by the White House

How many US troops are coming home from Afghanistan this year? On the eve of Obama's speech on his promised July start to the drawdown of American forces, here are three scenarios.

Opinion: Six ways to improve US relations in the new Middle East

The United States has an image problem in the Middle East. Years of supporting regional dictators and occupying Iraq have undermined influence. The current upheaval provides a rare opportunity for the US to reset regional relations. For years, US strategic interests, such as securing access to oil, counting allies in the fight against terror, or countering Iranian influence, trumped anemic calls in Washington for reform. But it is actually a US strategic interest to stand up for democracy, as open countries are inherently more prosperous, capable of upholding rule of law, and stable in the long-term. Initiating military action in Libya makes a transparent vision for engagement in the region imperative. Foreign policy expert Adam Hinds lists six decisive steps President Obama must take.

Sunni Awakening resolute in face of Iraq bombing

A suicide bomber on Sunday killed at least 43 in an attack on members of the Sunni Awakening, which helped turned the tide against Al Qaeda in Iraq. Iraqis are concerned Al Qaeda could regain ground as the US pulls out its combat troops next month.

Iraq suicide attacks target Sunni Awakening militias; dozens killed

The Iraq suicide attacks Sunday highlight the key security role of the Sunni Awakening councils, many of whom are former insurgents who helped turn the tide against Al Qaeda in Iraq.

Who's afraid of talking to the Taliban? Many Afghans

As General Petraeus assumes command in Afghanistan, President Karzai is pushing Taliban negotiations, but many Afghan women and minorities resist such talks.

Afghanistan: why US changed its mind about Karzai's 'jirga'

US officials initially had concerns about Karzai’s peace jirga, which is taking place in Kabul, Afghanistan. But with no Taliban representation at the event, the US shifted its stance.

Ramadi attacks: Is Iraq heading for more sectarian bloodshed?

The two blasts hit government buildings in Ramadi, the provincial capital of Anbar Province, on Wednesday, leaving more than 20 people dead and nearly 60 people injured. Officials blame Al Qaeda in Iraq for the attacks.

Baghdad bombings takes annual toll to 1,243 in Iraq's capital alone

Tuesday's coordinated Baghdad bombings left 121 dead, bringing attention to ongoing violence in Iraq's capital.

US defense bill approves money for Sons of Afghanistan

US defense bill approves money for Sons of Afghanistan

The defense bill signed into law by President Obama Wednesday provides money to pay Afghans to stop fighting. It's modeled after a similar successful effort in Iraq.

Baghdad bombings: A Sunni backlash?

At least 86 people were killed in the worst bombing since February 2008, presenting a serious challenge to the Shiite-led government.

Iraqi cities: Could violence bring US forces back?

Key challenges remain, including the discontent of former Sunni insurgents recruited by the US and credited with improving security.

US likely to release insurgent accused of killing five US soldiers

The deal would be part of a reconciliation effort between Iraq's government and extremist Shiite groups.

Trepidation as US exits Iraq's cities

June's pullback is part of the phased withdrawal of US forces. Will it jeopardize hard-won security gains?

Spike in suicide attacks: Is Al Qaeda in Iraq coming back?

US intelligence officials do not see a reversal in security gains, but Iraqi political maneuvering could affect decisions to keep US troops in trouble spots.

President Obama's news conference -- full text

Could Iraq violence affect US withdrawal plan?

The recent spate of attacks have come as US troops are preparing to pull out of urban areas.

Al Qaeda in Iraq leader reportedly arrested amid spike in bombings

The arrest is perhaps the greatest blow to the insurgency since Zarqawi was killed in 2006.

In Iraq, an Easter resurrection for Christian communities

Easter Sunday this year marks the return of Christians to several of Baghdad's most battered neighborhoods.

In Iraq, Obama underscores support for troops

On a surprise visit that lasted less than five hours, the US president also met with Iraq's prime minister.