Iraq extends state of emergency

The state of emergency has been in place for almost two years

The Iraqi parliament has voted to extend the state of emergency in the country by one month in its first session after a month-long recess.

The emergency measures, which give the security forces extended powers of curfew and detention, have been in place for almost two years.

Two US marines and one sailor were killed in western Anbar province on Monday night, the US military reports.

Meanwhile, more than 10 people have been killed in violence across Iraq.

MPs are also expected to discuss the controversial issue of whether Iraq's semi-autonomous regions should be allowed to merge to create bigger regions.

There are fears that such a move could lead to the break up of the country.