IRAQ
 
Tensions Ratched Up Post-Elections
 
Talks between Kurdish leaders and Iraqi Prime Minister, Nuri al-Maliki in Baghdad late in April have failed as yet to ease tensions on the ground. On 8 May, three car bombs targeting Kurdish political parties and Peshmerga troops went off in and around Kirkuk, killing at least three and injuring 50.
 
Their crude exports cut off and budget payments disputed, the Kurds are on the rack. But Mr Maliki is under pressure...