Iran’s alleged meddling in Iraq and Afghanistan and its defiance of orders to halt uranium enrichment have drawn sharp criticism from the west. Amid the rhetoric some analysts and policy makers conti…

Hundreds of thousands of Iraqi security personnel have received U.S.-led counterinsurgency training. But big questions remain over their readiness to replace U.S. forces.

The Sunni awakening movement and the Sons of Iraq security forces it inspired helped restore peace. Iraq’s long-term stability could hinge on keeping the movement satiated, experts say.

Western efforts to rebuild Iraq have focused on military and political progress but revival of civilian infrastructure lags badly.

Allegations of a murderous rampage by U.S. Marines directed at civilians in the Iraqi town of Haditha, as well as a possible cover-up by military officials, may further damage the U.S. image abroad. …