Developed by Iran for 20 years as a deterrent, the "Axis of Resistance" is keeping a low profile in this war. From the Iraqi prime minister to the religious leader al-Sadr, the order is to "silence" the "reckless voices" that want to start a war. At least 20 Muslim and Arab nations sign a statement for a nuclear-free Middle East "without exceptions" (a reference to Israel).

For the Jordanian expert, the picture is “negative” with Israel “operating on multiple, non-bordering fronts,” perhaps soon even inside Iran. The United States orders the evacuation of its embassy in Iraq, the most exposed in the event of conflict. The IAEA approves a resolution against Iran, raising the possibility of fresh sanctions.

In an interview with AsiaNews, Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako reflects on the days of the Conclave spent alongside the new pontiff and their “very important” first meeting after the election. He describes the “complicated situation” facing Christians in the Middle East, who suffer from a “lack of stability” despite some improvements in security. His first words to Pope Prevost: “We are counting on you.”

The cardinal has dedicated his work to defending a community that is part of the country and its history. The principle of citizenship, fraternal but frank dialogue with Islam and the courage of ‘transparency’ are the cornerstones of his mission. Among the most significant moments was the Pope's visit to Iraq. For the Conclave, the hope is for a pope capable, like Francis, of ‘reading the signs of the times’.

The upcoming vote will be the sixth since the fall of Saddam Hussein. This will occur against a background of intra-Shia divisions while incumbent Prime Minister al-Sudani is looking for a strong coalition to win a second term. The election appears competitive in Kurdistan, with opposition parties trying to break the KDP-PUK stranglehold. The Christian vote remains an unknown factor while doubts linger over representativeness.

The Chaldean Patriarch spoke to AsiaNews about the late pope on the eve of his departure for Rome to attend the pontiff's funeral and the conclave. Francis was a "prophetic" voice that spoke not only to Christians, but to all Iraqis. His historic trip in March 2021 and the message of peace and brotherhood are his legacy. He “was able to read and grasp the signs of the times better than anyone else.”