Global Update

Ghana News Live Blog: Key Updates Throughout Monday, January 26, 2026

Published

9 months ago

January 26, 2026

GNG Staff

Stay tuned! We’ll refresh this page as new developments emerge across politics, public safety, and civic affairs.

(Last updated: 7:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Court Dismisses Unauthorized Applicant’s Claim in Daddy Lumba Estate Case

A High Court in Kumasi has struck out an application related to the estate of the late highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) after a named applicant, his daughter Charlyn Fosuh, denied consenting to her inclusion in the legal action. The motion for misjoinder was upheld by Justice Hannah Taylor, removing her name from the application seeking letters of administration. Fosuh’s counsel emphasised that she had not authorised any affidavit in her name and preferred the family resolve estate matters privately to preserve unity while protecting her father’s legacy.

Prominent Figures Challenge Party Delegate Systems at Supreme Court

Elder statespersons including Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, and Dr. Christine Amoako-Nuamah have filed a constitutional writ at the Supreme Court challenging the delegate-based candidate selection systems used by Ghana’s major political parties — the NPP, NDC, and CPP. They argue these systems disenfranchise ordinary party members by limiting voting rights in internal elections to a small class of delegates. The plaintiffs claim such practices violate democratic principles under the 1992 Constitution and seek rulings to mandate broader participation and compliance by political parties and the Electoral Commission.

Minority in Parliament Questions Chief Justice’s Institutional Visits

The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has criticised Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ongoing visits to state institutions, alleging the engagements resemble a politically motivated “thank-you tour” following his appointment. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated the caucus would boycott a planned visit to Parliament and called for direct engagement with the judiciary on substantive issues. Supporters of the visits say they are aimed at strengthening collaboration across government sectors.

NDC Government Draws Criticism Over Delay in Passing Anti-LGBTQ Law

The Minority in Parliament has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy and stalling on the anti-LGBTQ Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which they say was championed by the party while in opposition. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin highlighted that despite previous advocacy, the government has been quiet on advancing the bill a year after assuming office, using procedural delays as justification. Critics argue this represents a departure from earlier commitments made during electoral campaigns.

Ghana Law Society Postpones Press Conference Amid Legal Battle

The President of the Ghana Law Society (GLS), Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has postponed a scheduled press conference due to an ongoing legal dispute. This follows a high court injunction application challenging the GLS’s recent accreditation and its claimed authority to issue practising licences — functions traditionally held by the Ghana Bar Association and General Legal Council. The postponement adds complexity to the unfolding legal tussle within Ghana’s legal profession. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghana-Law-Society-postpones-press-conference-over-pending-lawsuit-2018942

(Last updated: 2:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Felix Kwakye: No Special Treatment for Ken Ofori-Atta Under the Law

Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu has stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot receive preferential treatment amid ongoing investigations into his tenure. Speaking on JOYNEWS’ AM Show, Kwakye stated that equality before the law applies to all, including Ofori-Atta, who faces probes by the Office of the Special Prosecutor over alleged financial mismanagement. He noted legal recourse exists for any unlawful institutional actions, amid Ofori-Atta’s detention by U.S. ICE following visa revocation. The comments follow public debates on fairness and potential extradition issues.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ken-ofori-atta-cannot-receive-special-treatment-under-the-law-felix-kwakye/

Police Bust Suspected Cocaine Haul on Accra-Aflao Highway

A joint intelligence-led operation by the Volta Regional Police intercepted a black Liberty Jeep (registration FK692KF) near Kpotame on the Accra-Aflao road, seizing ten parcels of compressed substances suspected to be cocaine (each ~1kg) and half a kilogram of suspected Indian hemp hidden in the vehicle’s boot. The driver, 46-year-old Nigerian national Charles Adenkule, was arrested and is assisting investigations. The estimated street value of the cocaine is GH¢1,032,650, with exhibits sent for forensic analysis. Regional Police Commander DCOP Wisdom Akorli praised the officers’ professionalism.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/police-intercepts-vehicle-in-drug-bust-on-accra-aflao-road/

BREAKING: Abu Trica Re-Arrested by NACOC After Court Discharge

Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, alias Abu Trica, was re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) shortly after the Gbese District Court discharged him when the state withdrew charges. The re-arrest followed an attempt to detain him in the courtroom, which reportedly upset the judge. Abu Trica and co-accused were taken to NACOC headquarters for what his legal team described as possible administrative purposes. The case relates to a U.S. indictment for an alleged $8+ million online romance scam using AI-generated profiles targeting elderly victims.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/BREAKING-Abu-Trica-re-arrested-2018893

Kpebu Alleges Some Ex-NPP Appointees Avoid Prosecution Due to NDC Campaign Funding

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has claimed that certain former New Patriotic Party (NPP) appointees implicated in corruption are escaping legal action because they financed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 election campaign. In a TV3 interview, Kpebu described Ghana’s political scene as “dicey,” suggesting pre-election “horse-trading” where financial support secures protection. He argued the lack of prosecutions against expected targets points to such arrangements, common across administrations.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Some-Ex-NPP-appointees-walking-free-because-they-financed-NDC-campaign-Kpebu-2018837

Ghana Deploys Over 130 Health Professionals to Caribbean Under Labour Exchange Programme

Ghana has begun deploying health professionals to Caribbean nations to tackle unemployment among its qualified graduates, with over 130 workers sent to Antigua and Barbuda for midwifery, mental health, and general care roles under a three-year contract. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh explained the Labour Exchange Programme addresses a backlog of more than 80,000 unemployed health professionals, with future batches planned for Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad. The initiative creates jobs abroad while filling healthcare gaps in partner countries.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/health/Here-s-why-Ghana-is-deploying-health-professionals-to-the-Caribbean-2018910

Minority Accuses Chief Justice of ‘Thank-You Tour’ Over Ministry Visits

The Minority in Parliament has criticized Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s courtesy calls to ministries like Finance and Education, labeling them a “thank-you tour” for his appointment rather than genuine consultations. They questioned his impartiality and stated they would not participate, though open to formal engagement. The visits aimed to strengthen judiciary-executive collaboration, but the accusations raise concerns about perceived bias and judicial independence. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Are-you-on-a-thank-you-tour-Minority-blasts-Chief-Justice-over-ministry-visits-2018909

(Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories)

American Streamer IShowSpeed Lands in Ghana to Massive Airport Welcome

American internet sensation IShowSpeed touched down at Kotoka International Airport on January 26, 2026, sparking scenes of excitement as stunt riders and crowds gathered in the precinct. The 21-year-old content creator’s arrival, part of his African tour following Nigeria, received support from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). GTA Deputy CEO Abeiku Santana shared enthusiasm on X, highlighting planned cultural and fun activities to ensure a memorable visit. The lively atmosphere quickly went viral online.

Ghana Cedi Emerges as Africa’s Top-Performing Currency in 2025 – IMF Data

IMF analysis ranks the Ghana cedi as the best-performing currency in Africa for 2025, appreciating over 40% against the US dollar across more than 20 major economies. This outperformance stems from Bank of Ghana policies and IMF-supported reforms, bolstered by reserves nearing US$14 billion by year-end. The strength signals potential for further stability measures in 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-cedi-best-performing-currency-in-africa-for-2025-imf/

Devastating Fire Engulfs Mechanic Shops at Sofoline, Destroys Over 100 Vehicles

A massive fire swept through mechanic shops in Sofoline, Kwadaso Municipality (Ashanti Region), around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, destroying more than 100 vehicles, engines, and upholstery materials. No casualties were reported, though the cause remains unknown—some artisans suspect refuse burning. The incident has caused significant economic losses for local artisans. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/fire-sweeps-through-mechanic-shops-at-sofoline-destroys-over-100-vehicles/

Court Remands Man Over TikTok Claims of Military Plot to Assassinate President Mahama

Ahmed Hassan Abdul Razzaq, a 30-year-old laundry attendant, was remanded into police custody by an Accra court without plea after posting a TikTok video alleging two sergeants planned to kill President John Dramani Mahama. Charged with publishing false news to cause fear and panic, he admitted seeing the claim online but could not substantiate it. He returns to court on February 9, 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-remands-man-claiming-a-military-plot-to-kill-president-mahama/

President Mahama Expresses Shock at Rapid Economic Turnaround

President John Dramani Mahama described Ghana’s swift economic recovery as surprising and beyond expectations, noting he anticipated at least two years for visible progress. Inflation fell from 23.8% to 5.4%, and the cedi appreciated 37% in one year, earning praise from IMF and World Bank observers as a model of prudent management and discipline. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/we-are-all-shocked-and-surprised-at-the-quick-turnaround-of-ghanas-economy-mahama/

Electoral Commission Confirms Full Readiness for NPP Presidential Primary

The Electoral Commission assured complete preparedness for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on January 31, 2026, with logistics underway: ballot papers secured, materials distribution starting January 27 to regions and constituencies, and voter albums for delegates received. The process promises transparency and credibility. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ec-assures-readiness-ahead-of-npp-presidential-primary-on-january-31/

Registrar of Companies Announces Fee Increases Effective February 2

The Office of the Registrar of Companies will raise service fees from February 2, 2026, per the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512). The adjustment aims to ensure sustainable operations and better customer experience. Full revised fee details will be available at ORC offices and online. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/registrar-of-companies-to-increase-fees-from-february-2/.

Nollywood Star Tonto Dikeh Announces Reconciliation with Ex-Husband After 10 Years

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has publicly revealed her reconciliation with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill, the father of her child, a decade after their separation filled with public disputes and personal challenges. Sharing the news on Instagram, Dikeh attributed the healing to divine intervention, humility, and prayer, writing that “what human effort could not fix, God healed by salvation” and transforming their relationship into one of peace and respect. She urged followers facing difficulties to persist in faith, love, and trust in God. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/tonto-dikeh-reconciles-with-ex-husband-10-years-after-separation/

Gold Surpasses $5,000 per Ounce for the First Time in Historic Rally

Gold prices have broken the $5,000 (£3,659) barrier per ounce for the first time, extending a remarkable 2025 rally of over 60%. Factors driving the surge include geopolitical tensions (US-NATO over Greenland, US tariffs threats), persistent inflation, a weaker US dollar, central bank purchases, anticipated Fed rate cuts, ongoing wars, and gold’s role as a safe-haven asset amid financial uncertainty. Experts note its scarcity and cultural demand in markets like India and China. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/gold-tops-5000-for-first-time-ever-adding-to-historic-rally/

Worst Floods in a Generation Devastate Mozambique: Thousands Affected, Dozens Dead

Mozambique is grappling with its worst floods in a generation, triggered by heavy rains and the Inkomati River bursting its banks, affecting over 642,000 people since early January, mainly in southern and central regions including Maputo and Gaza provinces. At least 12 deaths have been confirmed from the floods (part of 125 total rainy-season fatalities), with tens of thousands rescued—some clinging to treetops or rooftops—amid submerged homes, farmlands, and roads. International teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK are assisting, though challenges persist with food shortages and isolated communities. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/people-cling-to-treetops-as-worst-floods-in-a-generation-sweep-mozambique/

Reckless Driving and Overspeeding Drive Surge in Ghana’s 2025 Road Crashes – NRSA

Ghana recorded 14,743 road traffic crashes in 2025, resulting in 2,949 deaths—a sharp rise from the previous year—according to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). Director-General Abraham Amaliba attributed the increase primarily to reckless driving and overspeeding, stressing driver behavior over road conditions. Funding constraints limited the Stay Alive campaign, but renewed efforts are expected with the Road Maintenance Fund. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/reckless-driving-overspeeding-behind-surge-in-2025-road-crashes-nrsa/

Ghana Urged to Speed Up Shift to Clean Transport for Climate and Health Gains

The UK–Ghana Jobs and Economic Transformation (JET) Programme has called for accelerated adoption of clean transport under the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP). With transport contributing nearly half of energy-related emissions and air pollution costing $3 billion annually (4% of GDP), the push aims to cut greenhouse gases, improve public health, create jobs, and meet Ghana’s 15% emissions reduction target by 2030. Recommendations include fast-tracking GADP revisions for electric vehicles and supporting financing for low-emission fleets. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ghana-urged-to-accelerate-clean-transport-transition/

Kennedy Agyapong Stands Firm: No Apology for Calling Bawumia a ‘Liar’

NPP flagbearer aspirant Kennedy Agyapong has defiantly refused to retract or apologise for labeling Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main opponent, a “liar,” responding to pressure with:

“I will not apologise. I will apologise my foot. I don’t fear anybody.”

The controversy arose amid the NPP’s Peace Pact signing for unity, where Agyapong resisted until document errors were fixed. His campaign denied circulating fake apology reports, as the row risks deepening party divisions ahead of primaries. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/I-will-apologise-my-foot-Kennedy-Agyapong-defiant-over-Bawumia-is-a-liar-claim-2018820

Ghana Armed Forces Dismiss HIV-Positive Claims Among Recruitment Applicants as ‘Fake News’

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly refuted circulating reports alleging that approximately 60 percent of applicants undergoing military medical screening tested HIV positive. In an official statement, GAF described the claims—first published by classfmonline.com—as completely false and misleading. The military emphasized that the ongoing recruitment medical screening process has not yet concluded, and no results have been released or declared to date. GAF warned that such misinformation undermines public trust and the integrity of the institution, vowing to trace the originators while urging media outlets to verify information from credible sources before publication. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/GAF-breaks-silence-on-alleged-HIV-positive-claims-among-applicants-2018814

One Killed, Two Injured in Truck Overturn Accident at Breku Forest on Accra-Kumasi Highway

A tragic road accident claimed one life and left two others injured when a cement-laden Howo Sinotruk truck (registration AS-4114-24) overturned in Breku Forest near the Pra River along the Accra-Kumasi Highway on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The truck sustained severe damage to its front section. A joint rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service teams from Konongo-Odumase and Juaso, led by Siaw Richardson, successfully extricated the injured victims, who were rushed to Juaso Government Hospital via ambulance (GV-589-20). The body of the deceased was recovered and handed over to the police for further action. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/One-killed-2-injured-in-Breku-forest-accident-2018821

Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more updates

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Global Update

Tragedy As Three Children Found Dead in Vehicle Boot in Ghana

Published

4 days ago

October 6, 2026

GNG Staff

Police in Ghana’s Northern Region have launched a murder investigation into the deaths of three young children whose bodies were discovered in the boot of a vehicle at the Koblimahagu Zoo in the Tamale Metropolis, after a preliminary autopsy indicated they did not die of natural causes.

The children, Dauda Abdul Aziz, 3; Saani Alsharaf, 5; and Dauda Fadilan, 7, were found dead on Monday morning, Oct. 5, in a black Hyundai Tucson with registration number AS 1770-14.

They had reportedly left home on Sunday to attend Islamic classes but never returned.

According to reports, preliminary autopsy findings suggest the children may have been murdered. However, a toxicological examination is still required to establish the full circumstances and possible cause of death.

“The autopsy revealed they did not die a natural death,” a source familiar with the investigation told Joy News. “There is a need for toxicological examination to be conducted to fully establish the facts.”

Vehicle Owner Arrested

The owner of the vehicle, a member of the Ghana Immigration Service, has been arrested and transported to Accra to assist with investigations. The officer reportedly told police that the vehicle had been stuck in mud for five days.

Police said the vehicle was found stuck in mud, with the driver’s door and rear passenger door open, while the boot and other doors were locked. The vehicle has been secured for further forensic examination as investigators work to determine how the children ended up inside the boot.

National Response

The Inspector-General of Police has deployed forensic and crime scene experts to Tamale to support the investigation. Homicide investigators and intelligence officers have also been dispatched to assist the Northern Regional Police Command.

The teams are expected to examine the vehicle and other evidence at the scene as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the children’s deaths.

The case has generated widespread concern in the Northern Region, where residents are calling for a thorough and transparent investigation.

Key Facts

Location: Koblimahagu Zoo, Tamale Metropolis, Northern Region, Ghana
Victims: Dauda Abdul Aziz (3), Saani Alsharaf (5), Dauda Fadilan (7)
Discovery: Bodies found in the boot of a black Hyundai Tucson on Monday morning
Suspect: Vehicle owner, a Ghana Immigration Service officer, arrested and transported to Accra
Official Status: Murder investigation opened; toxicology results pending
Response: Inspector-General of Police deployed forensic and crime scene experts to Tamale

Global Update

Death of Lab Worker From Suspected Pneumonic Plague in Siberia Prompts Quarantine of Nearly 200 People

Published

4 days ago

October 6, 2026

GNG Staff

A laboratory technician at a Siberian anti-plague research institute has died from a suspected case of pneumonic plague, prompting Russian authorities to place nearly 200 people under medical observation and drawing international attention as the United States confirmed it is closely monitoring the situation.

The 28-year-old woman, identified by local media as Darya Shipilova, worked at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia and the Far East. She reportedly fell ill after accidentally breaking a test tube containing live bacteria on September 25, according to the exiled news outlet Lyudi Baikala and pro-Kremlin broadcaster REN TV.

She was hospitalized on September 29 in Shelekhov, a town near Irkutsk, with symptoms of severe pneumonia, placed on a ventilator, and died on October 2.

Alexei Tsydenov, the governor of the neighboring Buryatia region, initially wrote on his Telegram channel that a woman had “died, maybe of the plague,” later adding the word “probably” to his message. He also sought to reassure the public by stating that the woman had not travelled to Buryatia and that her infection was unrelated to his region.

Russia’s consumer safety watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, issued a more cautious statement, saying the employee had been diagnosed with “pneumonia of unknown aetiology” and that expanded testing found no microorganisms associated with her professional activities. Authorities have not officially confirmed a plague diagnosis.

Mass Quarantine and Emergency Measures

The Shelekhov district hospital was placed under quarantine pending an assessment by a special commission. At least 197 people who may have had contact with the woman were placed under medical isolation, including more than 100 in hospital wards. Residents reported seeing people in protective suits, masks, and gloves in the streets, and masks were distributed in kindergartens, according to local media.

Authorities also canceled planned public events in Irkutsk, and law enforcement reportedly opened a criminal investigation into potential health safety violations resulting in death.

International Response

The US Department of State told Al Jazeera it was “monitoring the situation closely with the CDC and our other interagency partners,” and encouraged Russian authorities to “share accurate information quickly and openly”. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later said the situation was “not a cause for alarm” but “something that needs to be watched”.

What Is Pneumonic Plague?

Pneumonic plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, usually found in small mammals and their fleas. It is the most virulent and least common form of plague, affecting the lungs and capable of spreading person-to-person through respiratory droplets. Symptoms can appear within 24 hours of exposure and include severe respiratory distress, coughing with bloody sputum, chest pain, and rapid progression to lung failure and shock if untreated. The World Health Organization notes that pneumonic plague is invariably fatal if not treated early, but recovery rates are high if detected within 24 hours of symptom onset. The most recent case of pneumonic plague in Russia was recorded in 2016 in the Altai Republic.

Key Facts

Location: Irkutsk region, Siberia, Russia
Victim: 28-year-old female laboratory technician at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute
Quarantine: Nearly 200 people under medical observation
Official Status: Russian authorities describe the case as “pneumonia of unknown aetiology”; plague not officially confirmed
International Monitoring: US State Department and CDC tracking the situation

Global Update

U.S. Completes Withdrawal of Last Troops from Iraq After More Than Two Decades

Published

1 week ago

September 30, 2026

GNG Staff

Final departure marks end of Operation Inherent Resolve, with Iran and allied militias seen as key beneficiaries

All remaining U.S. troops are set to leave their bases in Iraq by tomorrow, ending a military presence that has spanned more than two decades and leaving a power vacuum that analysts say will benefit Iran and its allied militias.

U.S. soldiers were first deployed to Iraq in 2003 in the operation that overthrew Saddam Hussein’s government. After withdrawing for a few years, U.S. forces redeployed in 2014 to fight ISIS under Operation Inherent Resolve.

Victoria Taylor, who served as U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Iraq and Iran during the Biden administration and now directs the Iraq Initiative at the Atlantic Council, told The World that the 2003 invasion was launched amid debates over whether Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction.

“There was certainly a discussion about regime change and the possibility of also bringing democracy to Iraq,” Taylor told The World. “I think the reality, of course, was much more complicated as the U.S. learned that some of the intelligence on which the assessments about weapons of mass destruction were based were faulty.”

She described Iraq today as “a flawed democracy” and “a complicated democracy,” adding that the government put in place “has not always been pro-U.S. or pro-Western in its approach.”

Operation Inherent Resolve: A Success?

Taylor said the 2014 mission to defeat ISIS could be considered successful. At the time U.S. troops returned, ISIS had taken over a third of Iraqi territory and held significant territory in Syria. The U.S.-led coalition was able to retake territory and “significantly degrade ISIS in Iraq as well as in Syria.”

By the end of the mission, there were under 5,000 troops, primarily focused on supporting the counter-ISIS mission, providing logistical support to operations in Syria and within Iraq.

Under the withdrawal agreement negotiated during the Biden administration, all counter-ISIS operations under Operation Inherent Resolve would end in September 2025, with one remaining year for troops to stay based in the Kurdistan region in Erbil to support Syria operations.

“The focus was on trying to secure as long a lead time as possible and then to retain the possibility that the U.S. military could remain in Iraq in a bilateral capacity,” Taylor said.

She noted that the Trump administration took a different approach, viewing Iraq as an example of the “forever war” that President Trump has said the U.S. should avoid.

Kurds Lose Sense of Protection

For the Kurds, the U.S. presence provided “a sense of protection against the possibility of Iranian attacks, which became very vivid during the Iran war as the region was continually hit by drones, rockets and missiles, both from the Iran-backed militias, but also directly from Iran,” Taylor said.

She added that the U.S. presence was also “very important symbolically as the Kurds continue to believe that their autonomy is at risk.”

Iran Benefits from Withdrawal

Taylor said Iran has been eager to pressure the U.S. military presence in the Middle East and has done so effectively in Iraq by arming militias that have launched numerous attacks against U.S. military and diplomatic facilities.

“The ultimate goal was to see the departure of U.S. troops, which I believe Iran views as a significant victory,” she said. “At a time when the U.S. is at war with Iran, it is giving up its foothold in Iraq to fight Iran-backed militias.”

She said the Iran war “has not prompted any reconsideration of the U.S. military presence and what role that could have played in the broader regional context.”

Iraq’s Balancing Act Increasingly Untenable

Iraq is one of the few countries with strong ties to both the U.S. and Iran. Taylor said maintaining those ties is “becoming increasingly untenable at a moment when the U.S. and Iran are in active conflict.”

She said the Trump administration is applying “greater pressure” to disarm militias and undermine Iranian influence, effectively trying to force the Iraqi government to pick a side.

“I think it will be increasingly challenging for the Iraqi government to maintain any kind of balance between these two powerful neighbors,” Taylor said.