With a new government in place, security concerns will dominate the Iraqi leaders’ agenda. Reforming the country’s decrepit police force will be paramount if Iraq is to end its cycle of violence.

Violence in oil-rich Basra, Iraq’s second largest city, is one of the most serious security challenges facing Iraq ’s new government.

The number of militias is reportedly multiplying in Iraq, while their loyalties grow more dispersed and their tactics more violent and sectarian-focused.