Military spokesman confirms high-level meeting on developing peaceful program to diversify energy resources for oil-rich country

Agreement comes months after Islamic Republic attacked Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq; Tehran says pact will end 'vicious' attacks by Kurdish groups

Heavily fortified area in Iraqi capital housing government buildings and the sprawling US Embassy will now have cars passing through for 14 hours a day, but no trucks

Two days of deadly unrest rocked capital after resignation of Muqtada al-Sadr, as larger Iraqi political crisis remains unsolved

Closure comes as millions of Iranians were expected to visit Shiite sites in neighboring country as part of annual pilgrimage; Iran, Kuwait urge citizens to avoid travel to Iraq

At least 7 shells land in protected quarter housing gov't buildings and diplomatic missions, but unclear who authorized bombing; Shiite cleric's supporters occupy government palace

No injuries reported in attack that comes as Canberra attempts to mediate between warring factions in Iraqi political crisis

Followers of powerful Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr vow to occupy building as they persist in their efforts to prevent formation of coalition supported by Tehran

State Department says legislation jeopardizes freedom of expression, contrasts with progress being made by Baghdad's neighbors who joined Abraham Accords

Hundreds of supporters of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr celebrate legislation by chanting anti-Israel slogans at Baghdad rally; unclear how law will be implemented