The story: Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi’s suggestion of an expanded Egyptian role in Iraq's reconstruction has triggered heated debate. His controversial remarks come as the foreign ministers of Egypt and Jordan are holding prepartory talks in Baghdad ahead of a trilateral summit. Kadhimi’s critics say he should rather focus on China, which just concluded a landmark comprehensive strategic partnership with Iran.

The coverage: In a rare appearance on Arab media, Kadhimi was interviewed on March 27 by prolific Egyptian anchor Amr Adib...