US envoy Tom Barak offered one of his clearest assessments yet of Iraqi militias, Iran's regional influence and ongoing efforts to escalate tensions with Tehran. In a speech in Doha, Barak cited an expected end-June target for disbanding militias in Iraq, stressing that such a process would require negotiated arrangements for what would replace them. "Iraq is part of Iran's overall plans," Barak said, referring to Tehran-linked power brokers operating within Iraq's political and security structures. Regarding Iran, he said that diplomacy may be moving towards a possible opening: "Qatar presented a seven-day option and Iran is digesting it. Barak also said that the next two weeks could bring "dramatic steps forward" towards reducing tensions, suspending hostile activity and reopening the media. However, he stopped short of announcing a deal, saying military action remains an option he is trying to avoid. read more

US envoy Tom Barak offered one of his clearest assessments yet of Iraqi militias, Iran's regional influence and ongoing efforts to escalate tensions with Tehran. In a speech in Doha, Barak cited an expected end-June target for disbanding militias in Iraq, stressing that such a process would require negotiated arrangements for what would replace them. "Iraq is part of Iran's overall plans," Barak said, referring to Tehran-linked power brokers operating within Iraq's political and security structures. Regarding Iran, he said that diplomacy may be moving towards a possible opening: "Qatar presented a seven-day option and Iran is digesting it. Barak also said that the next two weeks could bring "dramatic steps forward" towards reducing tensions, suspending hostile activity and reopening the media. However, he stopped short of announcing a deal, saying military action remains an option he is trying to avoid. read more