The story: A new Iranian series that dramatizes how Islamic State was prevented from overrunning Iraqi Kurdistan in 2014 continues to stir controversy. After criticizing Iran for underplaying their role in fighting the militant group, Kurdish authorities in Iraq are now slamming “extremist” worshipers who left Friday prayers at an Erbil mosque. The walkout was triggered by the preacher taking the side of Kurdish authorities in the dispute.

The coverage: The Kurdistan region’s Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs (MoERA) published a statement on Jan. 29 criticizing local news outlets for sharing a clip of worshipers walking out...