Iraq rebuffs Tillerson call to disband Iran-backed militias
Craig TaylorIraq’s PM defends Iran-backed units in talks with the US secretary of state, who criticised their role. BBC News – Middle East
Middle East
Militants kill Egyptian security forces in desert shoot-out
The forces are reported to have been looking for the militants’ hideout when they came under attack. BBC News – Middle East
Iraq Kurds: Army claims full control of Kirkuk province
Kurdish forces have not confirmed reports that they have given up the last area under their control. BBC News – Middle East
Hamas must disarm to join Palestinian unity government – US
Hamas denounces the “blatant interference” in a Palestinian reconciliation deal signed last week. BBC News – Middle East
Inside Raqqa after IS was pushed out
The BBC’s Feras Kilani was with Syrian Democratic Forces as they took control of the centre of Raqqa, Syria. BBC News – Middle East
Iraqi forces enter Kirkuk as Kurds flee
Iraqi forces take over key buildings three weeks after a Kurdish independence referendum. BBC News – Middle East