In a move that ignited widespread debate in Iraq, the Iraqi Cabinet voted to deduct 1% from the salaries of employees and retirees, labeling it as a “voluntary donation to Lebanon and Gaza.”

The Iran-backed Zainabiyoun Brigade has escalated sectarian violence in Pakistan, with growing influence in attacks, assassinations, and money-laundering operations.

Protests have erupted around the UK about a film described by its critics as blasphemous and racist, and more than 120,000 people have signed a petition against it, leading to some cinemas pulling screenings from their schedules.