US Pressures Iraq, Gaza and Iran as Regional Tensions Escalate Over Militias, War and Military Build-Up

US Threatens to Block Iraq's Federal Reserve Funds Over Iran-Aligned Figures

The United States has warned Iraq it could block access to oil revenues held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York if Iranian-aligned paramilitary politicians are included in Baghdad's next government. The threat comes amid post-election negotiations and reflects Washington's concern over the growing influence of Iran-backed militias, even as the US continues to praise Iraq for cooperation on regional security.

US Suggests Hamas Fighters Could Receive Amnesty in Exchange for Disarmament

US officials have suggested that Hamas fighters could receive amnesty if they agree to disarm under the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan. The proposal follows the recovery of the last Israeli captive's remains and is being framed as a step toward transitioning Gaza from a ceasefire to longer-term stability, though Hamas insists Israel must fully implement ceasefire terms.

Israeli Search for Last Captive Exposes Gaza's Mass Graves and Unequal Treatment of the Dead

Israel's operation to recover the final Israeli captive has exposed the scale of Gaza's mass graves. Hundreds of Palestinian graves were reportedly disturbed during the search, while Palestinian officials say thousands remain buried under rubble with no access to recovery equipment. The episode has renewed criticism over unequal treatment of the dead during the war.

Trump Says US 'Armada' Positioned Near Iran as Threats and Warnings Intensify

President Donald Trump has said a US "armada" is positioned near Iran as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group deploys to the region. The move comes amid rising rhetoric, Iranian warnings of retaliation, and broader regional instability linking tensions in Gaza, Iraq, and the Gulf.