Erbil

The final US troops have withdrawn from Iraq, completing a drawdown that reshapes the country's security landscape. Kurdish leaders worry the departure leaves their region exposed to attacks by Iran-backed militias, while those militias publicly celebrate the American exit as a victory. Analysts warn the power vacuum could fuel renewed instability along contested territories and strain relations between Baghdad, Erbil and Washington's remaining interests in the region.

A mother says a Vanderbilt Health employee accessed her baby's medical records without authorization. The claim, reported by Nashville-area news, raises concerns about patient privacy protections at the hospital system. No details have been released on the employee's identity, motive, or any disciplinary action taken so far.