Smash Hit

Poll delay threatens US pullout from Iraq

MPs' failure to agree electoral law means national elections will be delayed for months, putting Obama's August deadline in doubt

As allies do battle, China does business

The Asian superpower is signing a number of important deals in the oil and mineral industries in Afghanistan and Iraq

Celebrities 'get more respect than war dead'

Government shows more respect to celebrities than to fallen soldiers, says former serviceman awarded George Cross

Iraq suffering from legacy of violence

Kidnap and murder of Muntadher al-Mussewi shows how criminal gangs have learnt their trade from the political Mahdi Army

First public execution since Saddam’s rule

Public hanging is agreed to appease powerful Mussewi tribe after rivals kidnapped and killed 11-year-old boy in Baghdad

Iraqis blame prime minister for carnage

The ruling party made strides in provincial elections last February, but each new terrorist attack erodes its support

Iraq Government bans alcohol in green zone

Once the scene of debauched parties, the diplomatic quarter of Baghdad is preparing for a dry future starting next week

Plastic surgery answers bomb victims' prayers

Violence in Iraq has led to a surge in facial reconstruction, without which victims could be denied marriage or employment

Iraq seeks approval for nuclear plant

Iraq has contacted the International Atomic Energy Agency to seek its approval to relaunch a peaceful nuclear programme

‘Britain has sent us back to our deaths’

The first Iraqi asylum seekers to be deported since the fall of Saddam Hussein say that they are living in constant fear

Funerals begin as Iraq bombing death toll rises

At least 155 people are now declared dead in yesterday's massive car and truck bombings aimed at the heart of government

147 die in worst Baghdad attacks for two years

Fears that attacks, which destroyed three government buildings, could signal a blood-drenched election campaign

Baghdad bombers seek to undermine democracy

The attackers scored a political bullseye as Iraqis began blaming Iraqi politicians for the continuing security lapses

US embassy in Iraq needs $130 million repairs

Faulty plumbing, falling plaster and electrical problems found in the embassy are highlighted in a damning report