The attack was a bloody reminder of the insecurity that persists in the region and which has spread to neighboring Pakistan since the end of the U.S.-led war.
Tag: Shiite Muslims
Iran’s Ashura Rituals Have Become a New Form of Protest
Ashura, which mourns the killing of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson and celebrates Shiite identity, has long symbolized the fight against oppression. This year, its chants have been turned against the government.
In U.S.-Led Iraq War, Iran Was the Big Winner
In the 20 years since the United States invaded Iraq, Iran has built up loyal militias inside Iraq, gained deep political influence in the country and reaped economic benefits. For Washington, these were unintended consequences.
20 Years After U.S. Invasion, Iraq Is a Freer Place, but Not a Hopeful One
Conversations with dozens of Iraqis offer a portrait of a nation that is rich in oil, hobbled by corruption and unable to guarantee its citizens’ safety.
After Clashes Kill 24, Iraq Cleric Works to Defuse Tension in Baghdad
With no functioning government and no common ground, tensions among Shiite political factions have become a deadly matter in Baghdad this week.
Iraq Clashes Leave 12 Dead After Muqtada al-Sadr Says He’s Leaving Politics
The violence erupted after the powerful Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr said he is leaving politics. Protesters supporting Mr. Sadr took to the streets of the capital, Baghdad, and security forces opened fire.
The Bloody Uprising Against the Taliban Led by One of Their Own
In northern Afghanistan, hundreds of Shiite Muslims joined an uprising led by a former Taliban commander. Times journalists spent time with the rebels massed to defend themselves.
Iraq Power Struggle Intensifies as Protesters Block Parliament
Followers of the Shiite Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr set up a tent city to blockade Parliament, paralyzing any progress toward forming a new government.
Followers of Iraqi Cleric Occupy Parliament Again, Demanding Reforms
Unable to form a government 10 months after elections, Iraq has been roiled by the street protests of the nationalist cleric Moktada al-Sadr, who withdrew from the government but again seeks to influence it.
Explosion at Afghan Mosque Kills at Least 10
The blast in Mazar-i-Sharif, one of Afghanistan’s economic hubs, was the latest in a series of attacks on one of its religious minorities and was claimed by an ISIS affiliate.