A Neanderthal whose 75,000-year-old remains were discovered in the Kurdistan Region’s Shanidar cave likely died from a wooden spear wound after surviving a severe facial injury, a British archaeologist told Rudaw, saying the findings offer rare insights into violence, care and burial practices among prehistoric humans.

Former Deputy Assistant to the US President and Senior Adviser for Energy and Investment Amos Hochstein called for a more rational US policy toward the Middle East, stating that the ongoing war with Iran has placed both Washington and the region at greater risk.

France is seeking a new defense cooperation agreement with Iraq to address emerging security challenges following the withdrawal of the US-led coalition, French Consul General in Erbil Emmanuel Mignot told Rudaw in an interview.

Iraq’s stored water reserves have increased more than sevenfold compared with the same period last year, as heavy rainfall has replenished dams and boosted river flows, Iraqi prime minister’s water affairs adviser told Rudaw.

Armed groups operating outside Iraqi state control are obstructing economic reforms, discouraging international investment, and prolonging instability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, a Middle East political expert has warned, calling for a negotiated agreement to bring their weapons under state authority.