The U.S. Coast Guard's USCGC Stratton faces significant challenges in the Arctic due to a lack of icebreaker ships and outdated infrastructure, highlighting the broader issue of America's declining influence in the region. As geopolitical competition intensifies with Russia, China, and other nations expanding their Arctic presence, the U.S. struggles to keep pace. Despite recent efforts to formulate a cohesive Arctic strategy, systemic issues and resource constraints hinder progress. The article underscores the economic and strategic importance of the Arctic, calling for increased investment and attention to maintain U.S. interests and capabilities in the high north.

Several hundred individuals from Europe and North America, including Danish citizen Tommy Morck, have returned home after fighting against the Islamic State alongside Kurdish militias in Syria. Despite their efforts, these fighters face legal challenges and societal rejection. Denmark, along with other European countries, has enacted laws to prevent citizens from traveling to conflict zones, impacting both Islamic State supporters and their opponents. The Danish government justifies these laws as necessary security measures, but critics argue they unfairly target those who fought against terrorism. The article underscores the need for intelligence services to distinguish between those aiding terrorist groups and those combating them.

The article discusses the critical issue of water scarcity in Iraq's Kurdish region, exacerbated by pollution and the potential construction of new dams by neighboring countries. It highlights the efforts of Nabil Musa, an environmentalist and Iraq's sole 'waterkeeper', who is part of the Waterkeeper's Alliance, in raising awareness about water pollution and the importance of protecting waterways. The article also touches on regional conflicts over water control, the environmental impact of dam construction in Turkey and Syria, and the challenges of implementing environmental protection laws in Iraq. Experts like Michael Stephens and Paul Salem provide insights into the strategic importance of water control and the crisis in the agricultural sector due to water insecurity. The story is supported by a grant from the Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting.

The article discusses the historical context and recent developments surrounding the Kurdish independence movement in northern Iraq. It recounts a parable told by a Kurdish elder about the pride and resilience of the Kurdish people, setting the stage for the current political climate. The piece then shifts to the recent independence referendum held on September 25, where over 92% of voters in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq supported secession from Iraq. Despite international concerns from countries like Iran, Turkey, and the United States, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) went ahead with the vote. The article highlights the tensions between the KRG and the Iraqi central government, especially in disputed areas like Kirkuk, which is rich in oil reserves and ethnically diverse. Clashes and violence were reported during the referendum, and the future of the region remains uncertain. The story emphasizes the significance of territorial control and the longstanding disputes that will continue to challenge relations between the KRG and Baghdad.

Kenneth R. Rosen investigates the treatment of Islamic State fighters' remains in Mosul, Iraq, where Iraqi forces have killed thousands. In the city of Albu Saif, he encounters bones scattered in a ravine, a testament to the intense urban warfare. Iraqi Federal Police Captain Salah admits to executing seven surrendered Islamic State fighters and using a body to keep warm. Despite international laws and Islamic traditions dictating respect for the dead, the reality is grim: mass graves, unmarked burials, and desecration. Rosen uncovers a mental health crisis among Iraqi forces, exacerbated by the brutality of war and a desire for revenge. The article also touches on the historical and cultural significance of burial practices in the region. Rosen's findings challenge the official narrative of adherence to the law and raise questions about the humanity of both the living and the dead in war.