World roundup: November 19 2021

Stories from the UAE, India, Brazil, and more

INTERNATIONAL

In today’s global news:

• Worldometer is tracking COVID-19 cases and fatalities.

• The New York Times is tracking global vaccine distribution.

MIDDLE EAST

IRAQ

A day after making a public call for Iraqi militias to disarm, Muqtada al-Sadr followed up by announcing the disbandment of his own Promised Day Brigade militia. I suppose this is putting your money where your mouth is, although it’s unclear whether this really represents Sadr’s departure from the life of militia leader. From what I can tell, and I could be wrong so bear that in mind, Sadr’s other militia—his former “Mahdi Army,” which reformed in 2015 as the “Peace Companies” (Sarayat al-Salam)—wouldn’t be covered under Friday’s announcement.