Recent reports review the Iraqi government’s first 100 days, including its stated anti-corruption measures and plan for state control of weapons. The reports also note an incomplete cabinet and continuing challenges in oil, public finances, and water.
Egypt and Iran’s foreign ministers discussed efforts to ease regional tensions and return to diplomacy. Egypt also emphasized the security of Gulf countries and safe international shipping.
Syria says it hopes security negotiations with Israel will restart soon. Contact stopped after the August 18 air raids on Abu al-Duhur airbase, while the two sides give different accounts of the reason for the attack.
The United States sanctioned ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye on August 18, 2026. The court rejected the measures, describing them as an attack on judicial independence.
FIFA ended the contract of chief operating officer Kevin Lamour after his public criticism of a proposed commercial project. The development has renewed questions about the federation’s governance before its March 2027 presidential election.
Lebanon’s parliament passed a general amnesty law on August 12, 2026. It reduces some prison sentences but excludes several serious crimes, including premeditated murder, corruption, human trafficking, and terrorism financing.
A Damascus court sentenced Bashar al-Assad and his brother Maher to death in absentia on August 11, 2026. The ruling is a major development in Syria’s efforts to address crimes linked to the former government, while rights groups have raised fair-trial concerns.
Lebanon’s parliament voted on August 11, 2026, to abolish the death penalty. The new law replaces it with life imprisonment with hard labor, but it still requires the president’s signature.
Zambians voted on August 13 in elections for president, Parliament and local councils. Prices, electricity and employment were important issues for many voters.
A Palestinian body said Israeli planning authorities were advancing plans for 1,024 settlement units on occupied West Bank land. The United Nations regards Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territory as contrary to international law.
