One of Iraq’s largest Sunni Arab groups endorsed the prime minister’s national reconciliation plan today, and the government announced new benefits to help freed detainees return to normal lives.

POLICE in Baghdad yesterday found the bodies of at least 85 men killed execution style in a gruesome wave of apparent sectarian killing, according to the Interior Ministry.

BRITAIN is to cut by 10% the number of troops in Iraq. Defence Secretary John Reid announced yesterday the 800 soldiers could be withdrawn in May because Iraqi forces were now capable of taking over many tactical responsibilities.

A large explosion today destroyed the golden dome of one of Iraq’s most famous Shiite religious shrines, sending protesters pouring into the streets. It was the third major attack against Shiite targets in as many days.

A large explosion heavily damaged the golden dome of one of Iraq’s most famous Shiite religious shrines today, sending protesters pouring into the streets. It was the third major attack against Shiite targets in as many days.

IRAQ’S president publicly praised Shi’ite and Kurdish militias Wednesday in a statement that could further antagonise Sunni Arabs and fuel fears of sectarian strife.