For New Muslim Envoy, It's All About 'Nuance, Listening' 

The U.S. State Department’s first-ever special representative to Muslim communities says her job is about “conversation and communication” and thinking “out of the box” about new ways the United States can foster dialogue with Muslims around the world. But can a single person relate and respond to the vast diversity that is the Muslim world? More

Auction Flops As International Companies Stay Aloof 

Iraq's oil industry has suffered a blow as its first auction of production rights in over 30 years failed to draw interest from international oil majors. Oil Minister Hussain al-Shahristani had touted the foreign licensing round as a key step to boosting Iraq's oil output and giving the government much-needed funds for rebuilding programs. More

Despite 'Uptick' In Violence, Stage Set For U.S. Pullback 

Iraqi police are on the streets in greater numbers and Iraqi soldiers are at the ready as the government prepares to assume full responsibility for security in the country's urban areas starting July 1. As U.S. troops withdraw, however, Baghdad especially has seen a surge in violent attacks. More

Apprehension On Evidence As Pullback Looms 

All U.S. combat forces are preparing to withdraw July 1 from bases and outposts in Iraq's cities, towns, and villages to peripheral areas. In effect, they will abandon many of the facilities used to maintain presence in communities and deny terrorists and insurgents access to the areas. More

Israel And Islam 

As U.S. President Barack Obama delivered his much-awaited speech to the Muslim world, many were listening keenly to hear his thoughts on resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Is that conflict so central to U.S.-Muslim relations and peace in the Muslim world? More