Iraq releases Iran-aligned commander Qasim Mahmoud Muslih

Muslih’s release without prosecution is one of number of unsuccessful government attempts to crack down on armed groups.

Iraq has released an Iran-aligned armed group commander who was arrested in May on terrorism-related charges after authorities found insufficient evidence against him. Two Iraqi officials said Qasim Mahmoud Muslih was released at 8am (05:00 GMT) on Wednesday. His supporters greeted him with hugs and kisses on Baghdad’s central Jadriya Bridge, taking photos and videos with him to celebrate.