"Iraq is weeks away from parliamentary elections that will set the country's course during one of the Middle East's most delicate moments in years. While the ceasefire in Gaza may have tamped down regional tensions, fears remain of another round of conflict between Israel and Iraq's neighbor, Iran. Iraq managed to stay on the sidelines during the brief Israel-Iran war in June."
"Meanwhile, Baghdad faces increasing pressure from Washington over the presence of Iran-linked armed groups in Iraq. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani came to power in 2022 with the backing of a group of pro-Iran parties but has since sought to balance Iraq's relations with Tehran and Washington. The Nov. 11 vote will determine whether he gets a second term rare for Iraqi premiers in the past."
"A total of 7,768 candidates 2,248 women and 5,520 men are competing for 329 parliament seats. The strongest political factions running include Shiite blocs led by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, cleric Ammar al-Hakim, and several linked to armed groups; competing Sunni factions led by former parliament speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi and current speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadan i; and the two main Kurdish parties, the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan."
Parliamentary elections on Nov. 11 will determine whether Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani secures an uncommon second term. Iraq faces regional uncertainty despite a Gaza ceasefire, with lingering fears of renewed conflict between Israel and Iran. Baghdad avoided direct involvement during the brief Israel-Iran war in June. Washington is pressing Iraq over the presence of Iran-linked armed groups. A total of 7,768 candidates — 2,248 women and 5,520 men — compete for 329 seats. Major Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish blocs are running, while influential groups such as the Sadrist Movement and the Victory Coalition are boycotting, citing political grievances and corruption allegations.
Read at www.bostonherald.com
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