Iraq and Kurdistan agree to ease tensions

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki agreed with President of Kurdistan Masoud Parzani to suspend media campaigns that could raise tensions between the two governments. The leaders also agreed to hold a meeting to prepare military commissions in disputed areas, after tense exchanges in recent weeks. The Iraqi Presidency issued a statement claiming President of Iraq, Jalal Talabani, would work to withdraw troops from disputed areas after the formation of military commissions. Such measures aim to create a dialogue that could lead to peace and stability in the region. The security situation deteriorated when Baghdad and Arbil rallied troops in disputed areas on November 16, prompting fears of political escalation and an armed dispute. Both parties failed to reach an agreement during a November 29 meeting, as Prime Minister al-Maliki refused 11 points of a 14-point agreement between military forces.