Iraqi forces ‘attack last IS bastion on Syria border’
Craig TaylorSoldiers, police and tribesmen are moving on Ana, one of three IS-held towns in the western desert. BBC News – Middle East
Middle East
Iraqi Kurdish referendum must be suspended – Iraqi PM
Iraq demands the suspension of the Kurdish independence referendum but will likely be ignored. BBC News – Middle East
Hamas says it is ready to hold first elections since 2006
The Palestinian militant group signals it is ready to end its feud with Fatah and hold elections. BBC News – Middle East
Kurdish MPs say yes to independence referendum
The decision goes against the wishes of Iraq’s central government, Turkey, Iran and the US. BBC News – Middle East
Iraq: At least 60 die in twin attacks near Nasiriya
Several Iranians are thought to be among the dead as militants attack a restaurant and a checkpoint. BBC News – Middle East
Syria war: ‘Russian air strikes’ kill dozens in Deir al-Zour
Jets are reported to have hit camps for displaced civilians and river ferries in Deir al-Zour province. BBC News – Middle East