The aid packages were prepared by the Iraqi Red Crescent Society.

Millions of Syrians in the northwest live in poverty, mostly relying on aid to survive with many families displaced by a 12-year conflict across the country.

Temperatures remain below freezing point across the large region, and many people have no place to shelter.

Monday's catastrophic earthquakes and aftershocks killed more than 28,000 people and destroyed thousands of buildings in Syria and across the border in Turkey and became one of the deadliest quakes worldwide in more than a decade.

Volunteers and civil defence teams are continuing to pull out both survivors and dead bodies from under the rubble in earthquake affected areas in Syria and Turkey.

Authorities feared the death toll would keep climbing as rescuers searched through tangles of metal and concrete for survivors in a region beset by Syria’s 12-year civil war and a refugee crisis.

The vote, which would come after consideration in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, could take place just before the 20th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. It would repeal the 2002 measure that greenlighted that March 2003 invasion, along with a separate 1991 measure that sanctioned the U.S.-led Gulf War to expel Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein’s forces from Kuwait.

“Every year we keep this authorization to use military force on the books is another chance for a future president to abuse or misuse it,” Schumer said. “War powers belong squarely in the hands of Congress, and that implies that we have a responsibility to prevent future presidents from hijacking this AUMF to bumble us into a new war.” He was referring to the Authorization for Use of Military Force.

The bill, led by Sens. Tim Kaine, D-Va., and Todd Young, R-Ind., passed the Senate Foreign Relations panel and the then- Democratic-led House in 2021. But it never came up for a vote in the full Senate, despite significant bipartisan support.

The Iraq war authorizations “are no longer necessary, serve no operational purpose, and run the risk of potential misuse,” Kaine said Thursday.

The House is now led by Republicans, and it’s unclear if leaders would bring the bill up for a vote. Forty-nine House Republicans supported the legislation two years ago, but current House Speaker Kevin McCarthy opposed it.

The Biden administration has supported the move, arguing that ending the war authorization against Iraq of the Saddam Hussein era would make clear that the Iraq government of today is a partner of the United States. It would also remove a grievance for rival Iran to exploit, State Department officials have said.

But Republican opponents have argued that revoking the two authorizations for military force would signal U.S. weakness to Iran.

“The ayatollah is listening to this debate,” Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas said, referring to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, when the panel debated the legislation two years ago.

Republicans also pointed out that President Donald Trump’s administration had cited the 2002 Iraq war resolution as part of its legal justification for a 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassim Soleimani.

Supporters of the repeal said presidents should instead come to Congress.

“The framers gave Congress the grave duty to deliberate the questions of war and peace, but for far too long this body has abdicated this duty,” said Texas Rep. Chip Roy, a Republican sponsor of the bill in the House. “We must do our job.”

Undersecretary-General Vladimir Voronkov told the U.N. Security Council that the group, also known by its Arabic acronym Daesh, continues to use the Internet, social media, video games and gaming platforms “to extend the reach of its propaganda to radicalize and recruit new supporters.”

“Daesh’s use of new and emerging technologies also remains a key concern,” he said, pointing to its continuing use of drones for surveillance and reconnaissance as well as “virtual assets” to raise money.

Voronkov said the high level of threat posed by the Islamic State and its affiliates, including their sustained expansion in parts of Africa, underscores the need for multifaceted approaches to respond – not just focused on security but on preventive measures including preventing conflicts.

The Islamic State declared a self-styled caliphate in a large swath of territory in Syria and Iraq that it seized in 2014. The extremist group was formally declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 following a three-year bloody battle that left tens of thousands dead and cities in ruins, but its sleeper cells remain in both countries.

The First Lady of Iraq met with several editors, directors, and journalists from the party affiliated media outlets and other press agencies in Sulaimani to discuss press freedom and professional journalism, and any challenges that they face. They emphasized that everyone must respect freedom and the principles of journalism.

She emphasized the critical role played by journalists in conveying accurate and truthful information, saying that "journalists and channels should be honest in disseminating information and news and rely on the truth and credible sources."

"Since political issues and conflicts will eventually come to an end, but the cost of mistakes will still be paid by the media, it is crucial for the professional media to stay impartial and avoid getting involved in political disputes," she added.

"Unknown sources of news are negative and destructive to trust and honesty and the value of media work cannot be ignored as an effective profession and an important field that requires accountability," said Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad after citing some examples of mistakes, bias, and a lack of sources.

The first lady of Iraq reaffirmed her unconditional support for the press's unlimited access to a variety of information sources and said: "We welcome any legal bill that enhances the freedom of work for journalists in the Kurdistan Region and provides them with the information." She suggested that rather than spreading falsehood and allegations, the websites and pages should serve as a source of fact and factual information.

The protesters - mainly young people - rallied amid a heavy security presence, with many carrying the Iraqi flag and banners with slogans.

"We are sending a message to this lean and weak bank that does not protect its national currency," said protester Walid al-Madani.

The dinar hit new lows last Friday, reaching about 1,670 to the dollar. The currency has lost nearly 7% of its value since mid-November.

The official rate stands at 1,470 dinars for $1. On Wednesday, the street exchange rate was about 1,610 to the dollar.

Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Monday accepted the resignation of the governor of the country’s Central Bank, Mustafa Ghaleb Mukheef, following the weekslong plunge of the Iraqi dinar.

Mukheef, who had been in the post since 2020, was replaced by Muhsen al-Allaq as acting governor.

Some politicians in Iraq have blamed the drop on recent measures by the U.S. Treasury.

The U.S. has significant control over Iraq’s supply of dollars as Iraq’s foreign reserves are held at the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Late last year, the Federal Reserve began imposing stricter measures on transactions, which have slowed the flow of dollars into Iraq, including blacklisting a number of banks from the dollar market over suspected money laundering.

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal published on Sunday, al-Sudani said “We think that we need the foreign forces.. Elimination of ISIS needs some more time.”

Iraqi PM did not give a timeline for US and NATO forces – who are currently serving in a training capacity – to leave Iraq, despite calls from some political allies for a full withdrawal.

“Inside Iraq we do not need combat forces,” he told the newspaper. “If there is a threat for Iraq, it is the penetration of the [ISIS] cells through Syria,” he said.

Iraq and the United States signed a strategic framework agreement in 2008, which included a number of provisions regulating the presence of US forces in the country, as well as bolstering cooperation in economic, cultural and political fields.

The number of American forces in Iraq is estimated at about 2,000 soldiers, deployed in three main locations:  the “Ain al-Asad” base, located 130 km from the city of Ramadi, in the Anbar Governorate, in western Iraq, Camp Victory, an amalgam of military and intelligence installations  near the Baghdad international airport, and the Al-Harir Air Base, north of Erbil, in Iraq’s Kurdistan region.

The president congratulated the commanders and soldiers of the Iraqi armed forces on the army founding anniversary over a century ago, and said they contributed to the creation of an epic heroism and a great victory over terrorism.

He added that the sacrifices of the army and all armed forces, including the federal police, anti-terrorism units, the Popular Mobilization Forces and the Peshmerga, “were the torches that led the way, preserved national glory and made Iraqis proud."

The President reiterated his commitment to consolidate professional military values in the service of the country.

The British Empire created the modern Iraqi army in 1921 and was known as the Royal Iraqi Army until 1958 Revolution when Iraq became a republic.

On the morning of December 3, 2020, Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Corps Commander Qassem Soleimani and Popular Mobilization Forces Deputy Commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed in a Donald Trump order drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport.

The incident led to a widespread outcry in Iraq and the middle east, with many Middle Eastern regions protesting against the killing and calling it illegal.

Three years after the killing of Qassem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, a public holiday has been declared in 13 Iraqi provinces, including Baghdad, Kirkuk, Najaf, Salahaddin, and Anbar. On occasion, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani tweeted that the "leaders of victory" should be commemorated, and their heroism in fighting the most powerful extremist terrorist group in contemporary history.

"Their targeting of all international laws and regulations is condemnable," he said. 

"That is why our government is working to establish sovereignty and work for an Iraq that is independent in its policies and capable of protecting its people, the premier said, 

Iraqi MPs have prepared a bill to increase the state-supplied monthly food rations to ease the burden on low-income families as the Iraqi Dinar continues to lose value against the dollar. 

The Iraqi economy is vulnerable to fluctuations in the value of the US currency as over 90 percent of the country’s goods are imported from aboard paid for by the US dollar. The bill aims to reduce the damage caused by the depreciation of the Dinar on low-income families.


According to some reports, the depreciation of the Dinar against the dollar has directly affected the lives of low-income families. The bill calls for easing the burdens on the lives of the burdened by increasing and improving nutrients and by committing to distributing 12 baskets of food a year. Most families in Iraqi benefit from the state-supplied food rations that include necessary food indigents such as rice, beans, sugar, and cooking oil.

The bill also asks the government to disclose the amount of money spent on supplying and distributing food rations.

Currently, one US dollar is around 1500 Iraqi dinars, an almost 15 percent increase from the past two years; in late December 2022, one USD equaled almost 1600 Iraqi dinars, bringing more instability and unpredictability to the Iraqi economy.  

Patriotic Union of Kurdistan President Bafel Jalal Talabani today met with Iraqi premier Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in Baghdad. The meeting discussed the latest political developments and economic, social and security issues and emphasized support for the government's efforts to implement its agenda constitutionally, a statement from PUK President Press office read. 

President Bafel Jalal Talabani stressed the importance of implementing the new government's plans and asked the prime minister to spend the Kurdistan region's budget share and financial needs. 

"The political parties national agreement on the management of the state was an important step towards overcoming the unwanted political situation in Iraq, but more important is carrying out the terms laid out in the agreement which conducive to the success of the political process," President Talabani said. 

The PUK leader reiterated the Kurdistan Region's desire to resolve the issues between the two sides and called for the negotiation committees to be more effective and be plaint to people's wishes and demands.

Iraqi Prime Minister assured President Bafel that the rights and financial entitlements of the Kurdistan Region would be guaranteed and the 400bn Iraqi Dinars (IQD) would be sent to the Kurdistan Region as soon as possible. The 400bn IQD refers to the monthly budget of the Kurdistan region that is usually withheld in Baghdad, leaving the region in severe financial distress; according to an Erbil-Baghdad agreement, Baghdad would send the region 200bn IQD each month to cover the employee salaries. 

The premier added that although the PUK has been a major partner in the formation of the government, it is one of the primary participants in the government and with the support of the PUK, it will serve the whole of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The PUK's continuous efforts have helped to serve the Kurds better and the Iraqi people, as President Bafel's shuttle diplomacy helps to resolve irregularities soon and address them early. 

In a rare visit, Italian prime minister Giorgia Merloni arrived at the Salam Presidential Palace in Baghdad. Iraqi President Dr. Abdullatif Jamal Rashid greeted the Italian premier.

The leaders discussed ways to improve their mutual interests, strengthen the already established cooperation.

President Rashid highlighted the importance of existing ties between Iraq and Italy, the necessity for effort and collaboration to strengthen them, and the fact that Italy is a partner to Iraq on many critical challenges.

He also discussed the security and political stability that the nation is currently experiencing following the formation of the new government, which set forth an ambitious ministerial program based on moving forward with significant infrastructure projects, improving the living and service conditions that directly affect citizens, working to support the private sector by creating the necessary infrastructure and legislation, and opening the door to investment.

President Rashid praised the international coalition, especially Italy, for helping Iraq in its fight against terrorism. He also emphasized the defeat of terrorist groups at the hands of the Iraqi security forces.

He continued that many areas of coordination and cooperation between Iraq and Italy can be improved, such as the fields of economics, culture, and tourism, citing the Pope of the Vatican's visit to Iraq and how well it won the hearts of Iraqis while also painting an accurate picture of the country's stable conditions.

The effects of terrorism must be addressed by resettling those displaced, cultural cooperation must be fostered through sharing experiences, and concerted efforts must be made to counter the dangers of climate change and its resulting crises of water scarcity and desertification.

The Italian Prime Minister praised the improvements Iraq is undergoing in terms of security and politics, reiterating her nation's desire to deepen relations with Iraq at all levels and pledging support for the country's security and stability as well as its sovereignty and the safety of its citizens. She also emphasized the significance of an Iraq that is strong and effective in promoting regional stability.

Following his visit to Baghdad, the Meloni flew to the Kurdistan region where she met with Kurdish leaders and discussed many shared issues. 

Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Jalal Talabani said in a statement, "I congratulate my Christian brothers and sisters on Christmas Eve and wish you happiness and contentment."

Kurdistan region has a great history of unity and coexistence, and Christians as an indigenous community have played an influential role in deepening the spirit of reconciliation and tolerance, PUK President said.

Speaking of the significant role the Christians have played in bringing Iraqi communities together, President Talabani said, "it is why we celebrate this holiday with our Christian brothers and sisters, and we all hopefully move towards a more promising future."

Thousands of Christians across Iraq celebrate Christmas every year. Christians have lived in Iraq and the Kurdistan region for thousands of years. 

Two people lost their lives in a flood in Basra and Nasiriyah as power was cut across the two provinces and declared tomorrow a holiday.

A child lost his liver, and four others were injured when a house collapsed in Basra yesterday evening as heavy rains, floods, and thunderstorms hit most southern and central Iraqi provinces. In Nasiriyah, a house collapsed, killing an Iraqi army soldier.

In Baghdad, Karbala, Babylon, Wasit, Diyala and Salahaddin provinces, heavy rains and floods caused power outages, blocking some main roads.
The Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education postponed the final exam of the first semester in Babylon province.

The Iraqi Meteorological Agency predicted that the heavy rains and floods would subside in the afternoon, but the rains will continue.

Natural disasters have increased in the past two years as the crisis-hit country faces many environmental challenges, chief among them water scarcity.

KurdSat reporter in Baghdad said that the gates of the Green Zone had been closed with security increased in the Green Zone perimeters. Lecturers have taken to the streets for the past few days demanding permanent employment, prompting the authorities to take strict measures and prevent another storming of the Zone, our reporter said. The lecturers have worked previously in contracts that lasted a year or two.

Also, in Baghdad today, Iraqi Airways temporary employees gathered in front of the Ministry of Transportation building and demanded permanent employment.

Mirroring Baghdad, Basra contract employees with Zubair municipality held a rally demanding their permanent appointment.

Najaf and Diwaniya farmers protested and blocked the main road between Najaf and Diwaniya, demanding payment for grains that the government had recently acquired but failed to pay for.

Since 2019, protests have become a norm, usually resulting in property damage and the closure of businesses and roads, yet they fail to yield tangible results.a

In a report released yesterday, the crisis-hit country’s human rights watchdog reported that 11,000 families have reported missing a family member from 2017 to 2022.

“The terrorist group ISIL has been active in Iraq in the past eight years and occupied one-third of Iraqi territory from 2014 to 2017, some of whom went missing during that time,” the group wrote in the report. Iraq tops the list of countries with the most disappearances, per the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). 

The Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights cited the Iraq-American war, ineffective law enforcement, and the rise of terrorist groups as the main drive behind the disappearances of tens of thousands of people in the past two years.

Iraqi authorities, especially in the south, sometimes violated the due process rights of suspects, such as guarantees in Iraqi law that detainees see a judge within 24 hours and have access to a lawyer throughout interrogations and that their families are notified and should be able to communicate with them during detention.

Today, Wednesday, Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ahmad Sahaf said, “Two Iraqi migrants have frozen to death on the Belarusian Polish, and the Iraqi Foreign Ministry has formed a committee to investigate and bring back their bodies.” The two migrants are not the first to lose their lives on the freezing borders between Poland and Belarus.

“The migrants died in Belarus because Iraq does not have an embassy in the country,” Sahaf added.

The Iraqi Embassy in Moscow is working to bring back the bodies of the migrants, and a committee has been formed to follow up and get back their bodies, according to the foreign ministry.

In autumn 2021, after covid19 restriction was loosened, thousands of Iraqis took to the borders between Belarus and Poland to cross into Europe; among them were 4000 Kurdish migrants who were trapped on the border as most still are almost two years on, when the Polish government mobilized its army and fortified its borders, preventing and migrant from stepping into its country. 

Poland described the migrants as Belarusian agents aiming to disturb peace and security in the country.

Many migrants trapped in the freezing border forests have no access to shelter or food, and some have either disappeared or died in Belarus. Some reports suggest that migrants detained were also tortured by the polish border guards.