UN sounds alarm over further political paralysis as judiciary announces suspension of court sessions following telephone threats pressuring for disbanding of parliament

Leaders of Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Iraq and Jordan to discuss Ukraine war-related energy and food crises as well as Cairo's dispute with Ethiopia over its mega-dam on the Blue Nile

Vast expanses of the once lush Huwaizah Marshes, straddling the border with Iran, have been baked dry, devastating people and wildlife

Supporters of Iran-backed factions hold protest in Baghdad to denounce followers of cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, as jockeying for power has left country in political limbo

Little is known about detainee, who has not been identified by Islamic Republic, nor has Sunni kingdom officially announced an arrest

'The people will not allow a coup,' says pro-Iran group Coordination Framework that opposes Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr, whose supporters have occupied the parliament for days

Supporters of pro-Iran cleric announce 'sit-in until further notice'; 1 civil servant says he's protesting 'corrupt and incapable government' and will 'sleep here' if needed

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

Demonstrators rally against nominee for prime minister selected by Iran-backed parties; crowds also force their way into fortified Green Zone, where foreign embassies located

'Iraq contributed to the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement, and several sessions held were successful and fruitful,' al-Kadhimi says prior to Jeddah summit with Biden