Rocket attack targets the US embassy in Baghdad, no casualties reported December 07, 2023 at 11:00PM

A rocket attack, the first confirmed since the Israel-Hamas war, hit the US Embassy in the Green Zone in Baghdad, causing minor material damage but no casualties. Iran-backed militias have claimed responsibility for numerous attacks on U.S. facilities in Iraq and Syria during the past weeks. The attack targeted the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses Iraqi government buildings and embassies. The US military reported a total of 78 attacks on US facilities, with 37 in Iraq and 41 in Syria. This attack underscores the ongoing threats faced by US personnel and facilities in the region.

Azerbaijan tipped to host COP29 climate talks, says Russia backs it December 07, 2023 at 11:05PM

Azerbaijan is tipped to host next year's UN climate summit, after striking a late deal with longtime adversary Armenia over its bid. The Azeri bid, which has the support of most countries in the UN's Eastern Europe regional group, is expected to win support at the COP28 climate summit. Diplomats are racing to find a deal before the scheduled end of COP28 on December 12. The choice of the next host has left little time for preparation.