Biden visits Iraq to mark formal end to US combat

BAGHDAD (AP) — Vice President Joe Biden returned to Iraq today to mark this week’s formal end to U.S. combat operations and push the country’s leaders to end a six-month postelection stalemate blocking formation of a new government. Wednesday’s ceremony will signal a shift toward a greater U.S. diplomatic role as the military mission dwindles seven years after the American invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.