A Mosul museum is using virtual reality to let visitors explore ravaged heritage sites in northern Iraq as they appeared before ISIS unleashed a wave of destruction. Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post

The West Asia Post | Virtual reality revives Iraq's war-ravaged heritage

Moving on our muscle is often associated to ISIS or war but the city is a treasure trove, a culture, a link to history and heritage, one that Iraq is trying to revive now using tourism and virtual.

Iraq: VR to revive war-ravaged heritage, government tries to revive tourism

On The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis: + Decoding the deadly violence in Iraq + What are Muqtada Al-Sadr's ambitions? + Why does US still have forces in Syria? + Ancient Iranian rug tradition gets a makeover Every Friday at 8.30 pm IST | 3 pm GMT

The West Asia Post: Decoding Iraq's deadly violence | How Erdogan controlled Turkish media

Following a pronouncement by a religious scholar in Iran drove Iraq to the brink of civil war last week, government officials and Shi'ite insiders believe that the meltdown was halted due to Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani's stance.

In a country where the power to start and stop wars rests with clerics, the story of Iraq's bloodiest week in nearly three years shows the limits of traditional politics.

The supporters of Moqtada al-Sadr, who is Iraq's most popular politician, took to the streets and blamed Tehran for whipping up the violence.

Driving through Baghdad in pickup trucks brandishing machine guns and bazookas, Sadr's followers tried to storm government buildings.

At least 30 people were killed during a clash between the demonstrators and members of the pro-Iranian militia.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-sadrist-movement-to-coordination-framework-who-are-iraqs-competing-shiite-groups-502709">From Sadrist movement to Coordination Framework: Who are Iraq’s competing Shi’ite groups</a>

Although Sistani has never held formal political office in Iraq, the most influential scholar in Iraq quelled the unrest.

An Iraqi government official told news agency Reuters that "Sistani sent a message to Sadr, that if he will not stop the violence then Sistani would be forced to release a statement calling for a stopping of fighting – this would have made Sadr look weak, and as if he'd caused bloodshed in Iraq."

Experts believe that Sistani's intervention may have averted wider bloodshed for now. But it does not solve the problem of maintaining calm in a country where power resides outside the political system in the Shi'ite clergy.

Since the US invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein, Sistani has intervened decisively at crucial moments in Iraq's history.

After top-ranking Iraqi-born Shi'ite cleric Ayatollah Kadhim al-Haeri announced he was retiring from public life and shutting down his office due to advanced age, violent protests began across the country.

Sadr's father, who was a revered cleric that was assassinated by Saddam's regime in 1999, had anointed Haeri as Sadr's movement's spiritual advisor.

Calling on his own followers to seek future guidance on religious matters from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Haeri denounced Sadr for causing rifts among Shi'ites.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Following a pronouncement by a religious scholar in Iran drove Iraq to the brink of civil war last week, government officials and Shi'ite insiders believe that the meltdown was halted due to Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani's stance.

Following a pronouncement by a religious scholar in Iran drove Iraq to the brink of civil war last week, government officials and Shi'ite insiders believe that the meltdown was halted due to Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani's stance. In a country where the power to start and stop wars rests with clerics, the story of Iraq's bloodiest week in nearly three years shows the limits of traditional politics. The supporters of Moqtada al-Sadr, who is Iraq's most popular politician, took to the streets and blamed Tehran for whipping up the violence. Driving through Baghdad in pickup trucks brandishing machine guns and bazookas, Sadr's followers tried to storm government buildings. At least 30 people were killed during a clash between the demonstrators and members of the pro-Iranian militia. Also see | From Sadrist movement to Coordination Framework: Who are Iraq’s competing Shi’ite groups Although Sistani has never held formal political office in Iraq, the most influential scholar in Iraq quelled the unrest. An Iraqi government official told news agency Reuters that "Sistani sent a message to Sadr, that if he will not stop the violence then Sistani would be forced to release a statement calling for a stopping of fighting – this would have made Sadr look weak, and as if he'd caused bloodshed in Iraq." Experts believe that Sistani's intervention may have averted wider bloodshed for now. But it does not solve the problem of maintaining calm in a country where power resides outside the political system in the Shi'ite clergy. Since the US invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein, Sistani has intervened decisively at crucial moments in Iraq's history. After top-ranking Iraqi-born Shi'ite cleric Ayatollah Kadhim al-Haeri announced he was retiring from public life and shutting down his office due to advanced age, violent protests began across the country. Sadr's father, who was a revered cleric that was assassinated by Saddam's regime in 1999, had anointed Haeri as Sadr's movement's spiritual advisor. Calling on his own followers to seek future guidance on religious matters from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Haeri denounced Sadr for causing rifts among Shi'ites. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

How Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani halted a meltdown in Iraq

Shi'ite Muslim militants clashed in the Iraqi city of Basra, leaving at least four dead, security officials said on Thursday, as violence from a worsening political crisis hit the south of the country. Things have been tense ever since two days of intense street fighting in Baghdad earlier in the week, the worst the Iraqi capital has seen for years.

The crisis is basically a power struggle between the powerful Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and mostly Iran-aligned Shi'ite parties and paramilitary groups. Both sides have tried to exert their control over formation of a new government since an election in October, Reuters reported. The struggle began with political moves in parliament and the judiciary and then went to the streets after Sadr withdrew from the political process and staged protests during the summer. It led to massive violence at the end of August.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-how-political-crisis-and-al-sadrs-resignation-lead-clashes-in-iraq-511334">Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation led to clashes in Iraq</a>

The violence is centred in Baghdad and the south, that is areas dominated by Iraq's Shi'ite majority which has ruled the country since Saddam's regime was swept away.

"The security situation in Basra is really bad, and could escalate," one of the security officials spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to talk to the media.

The security officials in Basra said the deadliest clashes took place overnight in the centre of the city. Two of those killed were members of Sadr's Peace Brigades militia, they said. Basra is Iraq's main oil-producing hub.

Meanwhile, government buildings were attacked in Basra where security forces and paramilitary groups with links to Iran are stationed. Identity of the gunmen firing on the government buildings could not be immediately verified, but the officials said they believed they were Sadr supporters.

The leader of one Iran-backed militia group and one of Sadr's main Shi'ite rivals, Qais al-Khazali, has ordered all offices of his group to close and he urged supporters not to retaliate if they were attacked.

Armed supporters of Sadr have attacked offices belonging to Iran-aligned groups in recent days, security officials say.

In the southern city of Nassiriya, his followers raided a local headquarters for paramilitaries with ties to Iran and seized cars and weapons, according to Sadrist and Iran-aligned security officials in the city.

In Baghdad on Monday and Tuesday, clashes broke out after Sadr announced his full withdrawal from political life. His armed supporters fought with security forces and Iran-aligned gunmen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Shi'ite Muslim militants clashed in the Iraqi city of Basra, leaving at least four dead, security officials said on Thursday, as violence from a worsening political crisis hit the south of the country.

Shi'ite Muslim militants clashed in the Iraqi city of Basra, leaving at least four dead, security officials said on Thursday, as violence from a worsening political crisis hit the south of the country. Things have been tense ever since two days of intense street fighting in Baghdad earlier in the week, the worst the Iraqi capital has seen for years. The crisis is basically a power struggle between the powerful Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and mostly Iran-aligned Shi'ite parties and paramilitary groups. Both sides have tried to exert their control over formation of a new government since an election in October, Reuters reported. The struggle began with political moves in parliament and the judiciary and then went to the streets after Sadr withdrew from the political process and staged protests during the summer. It led to massive violence at the end of August. Also Read | Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation led to clashes in Iraq The violence is centred in Baghdad and the south, that is areas dominated by Iraq's Shi'ite majority which has ruled the country since Saddam's regime was swept away. "The security situation in Basra is really bad, and could escalate," one of the security officials spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to talk to the media. The security officials in Basra said the deadliest clashes took place overnight in the centre of the city. Two of those killed were members of Sadr's Peace Brigades militia, they said. Basra is Iraq's main oil-producing hub. Meanwhile, government buildings were attacked in Basra where security forces and paramilitary groups with links to Iran are stationed. Identity of the gunmen firing on the government buildings could not be immediately verified, but the officials said they believed they were Sadr supporters. The leader of one Iran-backed militia group and one of Sadr's main Shi'ite rivals, Qais al-Khazali, has ordered all offices of his group to close and he urged supporters not to retaliate if they were attacked. Armed supporters of Sadr have attacked offices belonging to Iran-aligned groups in recent days, security officials say. In the southern city of Nassiriya, his followers raided a local headquarters for paramilitaries with ties to Iran and seized cars and weapons, according to Sadrist and Iran-aligned security officials in the city. In Baghdad on Monday and Tuesday, clashes broke out after Sadr announced his full withdrawal from political life. His armed supporters fought with security forces and Iran-aligned gunmen. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq crisis: Shi'ite rivals clash in Basra, four dead

At least 30 people were killed in clashes following the retirement of prominent Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. The protesters withdrew from Baghdad's green zone after an ultimatum issued by Sadr himself. Palki Sharma Upadhyay decodes the power struggle in Iraq.

Gravitas: At least 30 killed in Baghdad clashes

Iraq was marred by deadly violence after Muqtada Al-Sadr announced that he's quitting politics. In the latest, Iraq's Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi has said that he will leave office of the political situation in the country worsens.

Iraq's PM: Will vacate post if political situation worsens

Sadr’s supporters storm Iraq’s government buildings. Take a look!

The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people.&nbsp;

The protesters were already staging sit-ins in front of the Presidential palace in Baghdad and the news of Al-Sadr quitting politics amidst the ongoing political crisis prompted them to break into the Green Zone.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-how-political-crisis-and-al-sadrs-resignation-lead-clashes-in-iraq-511334">Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation lead to clashes in Iraq</a>

According to the local media reports, the military ended up using stun grenades and tear gas in order to contain the crowd and in the process, a number of people ended up losing their lives on Monday.&nbsp;

It was a public uproar similar to what the world witnessed in Sri Lanka after the public broke into the residence of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's palace&nbsp;in protests over the economic crisis in the country.&nbsp;

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Right now: 
Sadrist protestors swimming in the presidential palace pool.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baghdad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baghdad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a> <a href="https://t.co/H20wUVsHgb">pic.twitter.com/H20wUVsHgb</a>
— Suhad Talabany (@TalabanySuhad) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalabanySuhad/status/1564240793686138884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The similarities did not end there as Iraqi protestors were pictured cooling down in the pool – something that also happened when the protestors in Sri Lanka jumped into Rajapaksa’s&nbsp;pool in Colombo.&nbsp;

The conflict was caused by Iraq’s political crisis as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003.

The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. &nbsp;The pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked&nbsp;Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister but the protestors were not pleased. &nbsp;

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The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people.

The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people. The protesters were already staging sit-ins in front of the Presidential palace in Baghdad and the news of Al-Sadr quitting politics amidst the ongoing political crisis prompted them to break into the Green Zone. Also read | Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation lead to clashes in Iraq According to the local media reports, the military ended up using stun grenades and tear gas in order to contain the crowd and in the process, a number of people ended up losing their lives on Monday. It was a public uproar similar to what the world witnessed in Sri Lanka after the public broke into the residence of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's palace in protests over the economic crisis in the country. Right now: Sadrist protestors swimming in the presidential palace pool.#Baghdad #Iraq pic.twitter.com/H20wUVsHgb — Suhad Talabany (@TalabanySuhad) August 29, 2022 × The similarities did not end there as Iraqi protestors were pictured cooling down in the pool – something that also happened when the protestors in Sri Lanka jumped into Rajapaksa’s pool in Colombo. The conflict was caused by Iraq’s political crisis as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003. The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. The pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister but the protestors were not pleased.

Iraqi protesters take dip in pool after storming presidential palace in Baghdad - WATCH

After Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr announced his political exit, his followers stormed the government building, leading the Iraqi army to impose a state-wide curfew. In other news, as per reports, the Biden administration intends to ask the US Congress to approve an estimated $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan. In other news, after the FBI raid on Trump’s residence, a number of documents were discovered to be under attorney-client privilege. Finally, Serena Williams swept into the US Open second round on Monday on an emotional night in New York in what is expected to be the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's final tournament.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protests-firing-after-sadrs-political-exit-army-declares-curfew-511255">Iraq: Protests after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters dead, army declares curfew</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/29/291445-iraq-2.jpg" />

The protests started shortly after Sadr's tweet. His supporters "entered the Republican Palace", a government building inside Baghdad's fortified Green Zone. The Green Zone also houses diplomatic missions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-plans-to-ask-congress-to-approve-11-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-politico-report-says-511314">Biden plans to ask Congress to approve $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, Politico report says</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/30/291506-2022-08-30t005504z2lynxmpei7s0xgrtroptp4usa-biden.JPG" />

Earlier, Reuters had reported that President Joe Biden's administration and US lawmakers are fully committed to supporting the government in Taipei, and there are items in the approval pipeline for Taiwan that could be announced in the coming weeks or months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/documents-found-in-donald-trumps-residence-possibly-covered-by-attorney-client-privilege-511318">Documents found in Donald Trump's residence 'possibly covered by attorney-client privilege'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/18/280066-new-wion-19.png" />

In a court filing by the federal prosecutors, they said that the department has already completed the review of all the materials found by the FBI and will provide a more detailed list of the documents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-serena-williams-starts-farewell-campaign-with-win-over-danka-kovinic-511313">US Open: Serena Williams starts farewell campaign with win over Danka Kovinic</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/30/291507-picture.jpg" />

That kind of form prompted Williams to reveal that she was on the brink of retirement from the sport in which she played her first match as a professional in 1995.

Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk says world is facing 'baby crisis', describes himself pro-nuclear

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After Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr announced his political exit, his followers stormed the government building, leading the Iraqi army to impose a state-wide curfew.

After Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr announced his political exit, his followers stormed the government building, leading the Iraqi army to impose a state-wide curfew. In other news, as per reports, the Biden administration intends to ask the US Congress to approve an estimated $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan. In other news, after the FBI raid on Trump’s residence, a number of documents were discovered to be under attorney-client privilege. Finally, Serena Williams swept into the US Open second round on Monday on an emotional night in New York in what is expected to be the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's final tournament. Click on the headlines to read more: Iraq: Protests after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters dead, army declares curfew The protests started shortly after Sadr's tweet. His supporters "entered the Republican Palace", a government building inside Baghdad's fortified Green Zone. The Green Zone also houses diplomatic missions. Biden plans to ask Congress to approve $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, Politico report says Earlier, Reuters had reported that President Joe Biden's administration and US lawmakers are fully committed to supporting the government in Taipei, and there are items in the approval pipeline for Taiwan that could be announced in the coming weeks or months. Documents found in Donald Trump's residence 'possibly covered by attorney-client privilege' In a court filing by the federal prosecutors, they said that the department has already completed the review of all the materials found by the FBI and will provide a more detailed list of the documents. US Open: Serena Williams starts farewell campaign with win over Danka Kovinic That kind of form prompted Williams to reveal that she was on the brink of retirement from the sport in which she played her first match as a professional in 1995. Watch | Elon Musk says world is facing 'baby crisis', describes himself pro-nuclear

Morning news headline: Iraq army declares curfew, Biden plans $1.1 billion arms sale for Taiwan, & more

At least 30 people were shot dead in Baghdad following clashes between rival groups. Now, Sadr supporters have started to vacate the green zone.

WION Dispatch | Iraq civil unrest: Al-Sadr's supporters begin withdrawal after his ultimatum

Protestors started to depart from the Green Zone in Baghdad on Tuesday after Moqtada Sadr, a powerful cleric in Iraq, urged his supporters to call off a protest after violence claimed the lives of 23.

Sadr threatened to "disavow" anyone still in the high-security Green Zone after giving his supporters "60 minutes" to depart.

From his base in the city of Najaf in central Iraq, Sadr told reporters, "I apologise to the Iraqi people, the only ones affected by the events."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-iraq-clashes-between-sadrs-and-military-claimed-lives-of-15-statewide-curfew-imposed-511343">Live: Iraqi protesters storm presidential palace; at least 23 killed in clashes</a>

AFP reports that following Sadr's address, which was broadcast live on television, his supporters could be seen starting to leave the Green Zone, and shortly after that, the army lifted the nationwide curfew that had been in place since Monday's violence flared up.

Iraq's political crisis&nbsp;has left the nation without a functioning government, prime minister, or president for months, and has caused tensions to skyrocket.

Sadr's followers stormed the government palace inside the Green Zone on Monday afternoon in response to their leader's announcement that he was leaving politics, and events intensified quickly.

Following the 2003 US-led overthrow of dictator Saddam Hussein, Sadr, a grey-bearded preacher with millions of devoted followers, once led a militia against American and Iraqi government forces. On Monday, Sadr announced his "definitive retirement" and said he had "decided not to meddle in political affairs."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protests-firing-after-sadrs-political-exit-army-declares-curfew-511255">Iraq: Protests after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters dead, army declares curfew</a>

On Tuesday morning, fighting between Sadr's followers and the army and members of the Hashed al-Shaabi, erstwhile paramilitaries supported by Tehran and now part of the Iraqi military, continued with the rattling of automatic weapons and louder blasts of rocket-propelled grenades.

The UN mission in Iraq has also issued a warning that "an extremely dangerous escalation" was imminent and urged all parties to "refrain from acts that could lead to an unstoppable chain of events."

It asserted that "the very survival of the state is at stake."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Protestors started to depart from the Green Zone in Baghdad on Tuesday after Moqtada Sadr, a powerful cleric in Iraq, urged his supporters to call off a protest after violence claimed the lives of 23.

Protestors started to depart from the Green Zone in Baghdad on Tuesday after Moqtada Sadr, a powerful cleric in Iraq, urged his supporters to call off a protest after violence claimed the lives of 23. Sadr threatened to "disavow" anyone still in the high-security Green Zone after giving his supporters "60 minutes" to depart. From his base in the city of Najaf in central Iraq, Sadr told reporters, "I apologise to the Iraqi people, the only ones affected by the events." Also read | Live: Iraqi protesters storm presidential palace; at least 23 killed in clashes AFP reports that following Sadr's address, which was broadcast live on television, his supporters could be seen starting to leave the Green Zone, and shortly after that, the army lifted the nationwide curfew that had been in place since Monday's violence flared up. Iraq's political crisis has left the nation without a functioning government, prime minister, or president for months, and has caused tensions to skyrocket. Sadr's followers stormed the government palace inside the Green Zone on Monday afternoon in response to their leader's announcement that he was leaving politics, and events intensified quickly. Following the 2003 US-led overthrow of dictator Saddam Hussein, Sadr, a grey-bearded preacher with millions of devoted followers, once led a militia against American and Iraqi government forces. On Monday, Sadr announced his "definitive retirement" and said he had "decided not to meddle in political affairs." Also read | Iraq: Protests after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters dead, army declares curfew On Tuesday morning, fighting between Sadr's followers and the army and members of the Hashed al-Shaabi, erstwhile paramilitaries supported by Tehran and now part of the Iraqi military, continued with the rattling of automatic weapons and louder blasts of rocket-propelled grenades. The UN mission in Iraq has also issued a warning that "an extremely dangerous escalation" was imminent and urged all parties to "refrain from acts that could lead to an unstoppable chain of events." It asserted that "the very survival of the state is at stake." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'I apologise to the people' Iraqi cleric Moqtada Sadr orders his followers to leave Green Zone

Iraqi army&nbsp;declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr stormed the government building in Baghdad's Green Zone. The curfew came&nbsp;into effect from 7 pm local time (1600 GMT) on Monday, August 29. The protests erupted on the same day of declaration from Sadr of a political exit.

The curfew was declared after firing inside Green Zone. The firings have claimed 15&nbsp;lives till now.

The influential Shiite cleric took to Twitter on Monday to declare his full withdrawal from political life.

"I've decided not to meddle in political affairs. I, therefore, announce now my definitive retirement," read Sadr's tweet

The surprise move came even as his supporters continued to block the Iraqi parliament.

The protests started shortly after Sadr's tweet. His supporters "entered the Republican Palace", a government building inside Baghdad's fortified Green Zone. The Green Zone also houses diplomatic missions.

Inside the palace, protesters lounged in armchairs in a meeting room, with others waving Iraqi flags and taking photographs of themselves -- while others cooled off in a pool in the garden, an AFP photographer said.

As several thousand other loyalists -- many shouting "Moqtada, Moqtada" -- headed towards the Green Zone, an AFP journalist reported, the army announced "a full curfew in the capital Baghdad" starting from 3:30 pm (1230 GMT).

Iraq is in a political deadlock since legislative elections in October last year. This has left the country without a government, president or a prime minister. There is disagreement between several factions over the formation of a coalition.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqs-shiite-leader-moqtada-al-sadr-says-he-is-quitting-politics-511165">Iraqi Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr says he's quitting politics in bombshell announcement</a>

&nbsp;

Witnesses told AFP that the shots were fired by supporters of a rival Shiite bloc, the pro-Iran Coordination Framework, hours after Sadr announced his "definitive retirement" from politics amid a protracted political crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iraqi army declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr stormed the government building in Baghdad's Green Zone. The curfew came into effect from 7 pm local time (1600 GMT) on Monday, August 29.

Iraqi army declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr stormed the government building in Baghdad's Green Zone. The curfew came into effect from 7 pm local time (1600 GMT) on Monday, August 29. The protests erupted on the same day of declaration from Sadr of a political exit. The curfew was declared after firing inside Green Zone. The firings have claimed 15 lives till now. The influential Shiite cleric took to Twitter on Monday to declare his full withdrawal from political life. "I've decided not to meddle in political affairs. I, therefore, announce now my definitive retirement," read Sadr's tweet The surprise move came even as his supporters continued to block the Iraqi parliament. The protests started shortly after Sadr's tweet. His supporters "entered the Republican Palace", a government building inside Baghdad's fortified Green Zone. The Green Zone also houses diplomatic missions. Inside the palace, protesters lounged in armchairs in a meeting room, with others waving Iraqi flags and taking photographs of themselves -- while others cooled off in a pool in the garden, an AFP photographer said. As several thousand other loyalists -- many shouting "Moqtada, Moqtada" -- headed towards the Green Zone, an AFP journalist reported, the army announced "a full curfew in the capital Baghdad" starting from 3:30 pm (1230 GMT). Iraq is in a political deadlock since legislative elections in October last year. This has left the country without a government, president or a prime minister. There is disagreement between several factions over the formation of a coalition. Also Read | Iraqi Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr says he's quitting politics in bombshell announcement Witnesses told AFP that the shots were fired by supporters of a rival Shiite bloc, the pro-Iran Coordination Framework, hours after Sadr announced his "definitive retirement" from politics amid a protracted political crisis. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iraq: Protests after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters dead, army declares curfew

Iraq: Sadr supporters start to vacate green zone after at least 30 killed in Baghdad clashes

The situation in Iraq took a turn for the worse on Monday as at least 15 people were killed and hundreds were injured in clashes between the followers of Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and the military in Baghdad’s Green Zone. &nbsp;

The protestors were staging sit-ins at the parliament complex when the clashes broke out following al-Sadr's announcement to retire from politics. The protestors breached the entrance of the Presidential palace and they were met with tear gas and stun grenades. &nbsp;

The authorities have declared a nationwide curfew and all official meetings were also suspended.&nbsp;

Political crisis&nbsp;

The conflict is a new chapter in the uncertainty surrounding Iraq’s political scene as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protests-firing-after-sadrs-political-exit-army-declares-curfew-511255" hreflang="en">Iraq: Protests and firing after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters shot dead</a>

The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. &nbsp;

It seemed like the stalemate was about to end as&nbsp;the pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked&nbsp;Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister. &nbsp;

However, the protestors were not happy with the pick and they responded by storming government buildings and staging protests to make Al-Sadr the new premier of the country.&nbsp;

Who is Moqtada al-Sadr?&nbsp;

Al-Sadr, an Iraqi Shia scholar and founder of the most powerful political faction in the country, gained prominence after the fall of former dictator Saddam Hussein.&nbsp;

The cleric has exercised a lot of control over the political scenario of the country and in 2003,&nbsp;his followers and the affiliated militia (Mahdi army) resisted the US troops following the invasion.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/documents-found-in-donald-trumps-residence-possibly-covered-by-attorney-client-privilege-511318" hreflang="en">Documents found in Donald Trump's residence 'possibly covered by attorney-client privilege'</a>

Both US and Iran have criticised Al-Sadr over the years for his strong views and his nationalist sentiments have made him a favourite with the poor Shia communities in the country.&nbsp;

Possible reason for resignation&nbsp;

While it seemed difficult for Al-Sadr to grab power at the moment, the decision to retire has left a lot of people confused. According to AP,&nbsp;it can be a response to the resignation of Ayatollah Kadhim al-Haeri – a prominent Shia leader in Iraq who also has a lot of control over a number of Al-Sadr followers. &nbsp;

Al-Haeri announced that he will be stepping down due to health reasons and asked his followers to show their support for Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It was a problem for Al-Sadr who gained power from Al-Haeri's support and this announcement meant the momentary end of his clerical ambitions.&nbsp;

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The situation in Iraq took a turn for the worse on Monday as at least 15 people were killed and hundreds were injured in clashes between the followers of Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and the military in Baghdad’s Green Zone.

The situation in Iraq took a turn for the worse on Monday as at least 15 people were killed and hundreds were injured in clashes between the followers of Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and the military in Baghdad’s Green Zone. The protestors were staging sit-ins at the parliament complex when the clashes broke out following al-Sadr's announcement to retire from politics. The protestors breached the entrance of the Presidential palace and they were met with tear gas and stun grenades. The authorities have declared a nationwide curfew and all official meetings were also suspended. Political crisis The conflict is a new chapter in the uncertainty surrounding Iraq’s political scene as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003. Also read | Iraq: Protests and firing after Sadr's political exit, 15 protesters shot dead The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. It seemed like the stalemate was about to end as the pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister. However, the protestors were not happy with the pick and they responded by storming government buildings and staging protests to make Al-Sadr the new premier of the country. Who is Moqtada al-Sadr? Al-Sadr, an Iraqi Shia scholar and founder of the most powerful political faction in the country, gained prominence after the fall of former dictator Saddam Hussein. The cleric has exercised a lot of control over the political scenario of the country and in 2003, his followers and the affiliated militia (Mahdi army) resisted the US troops following the invasion. Also read | Documents found in Donald Trump's residence 'possibly covered by attorney-client privilege' Both US and Iran have criticised Al-Sadr over the years for his strong views and his nationalist sentiments have made him a favourite with the poor Shia communities in the country. Possible reason for resignation While it seemed difficult for Al-Sadr to grab power at the moment, the decision to retire has left a lot of people confused. According to AP, it can be a response to the resignation of Ayatollah Kadhim al-Haeri – a prominent Shia leader in Iraq who also has a lot of control over a number of Al-Sadr followers. Al-Haeri announced that he will be stepping down due to health reasons and asked his followers to show their support for Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It was a problem for Al-Sadr who gained power from Al-Haeri's support and this announcement meant the momentary end of his clerical ambitions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation led to clashes in Iraq

Two protesters were killed and Iraq declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Muqtada Al-Sadr stormed the government palace in Baghdad's Green Zone. Molly Gambhir tells you why Iraq could soon descend into a civil war.

WION Fineprint | 2 protesters killed in clashes in Baghdad's Green Zone

Influential Iraqi Shi'ite leader Moqtada al-Sadr on Monday took to Twitter to announce his full withdrawal from political life. The move was surprising for many as his protesters have been blocking parliament for weeks now.

"I've decided not to meddle in political affairs. I, therefore, announce now my definitive retirement," read Sadr's tweet where he&nbsp;also announced that he was shutting his political offices and institutions in the country, following an unsalvagable&nbsp;political deadlock.

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— مقتدى السيد محمد الصدر (@Mu_AlSadr) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mu_AlSadr/status/1564189498086506501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to an AFP report, live fire rocked Baghdad's Green Zone area in the evening as&nbsp;Sadr's supporters stormed the area. Witnesses on the ground stated that the shots were fired by supporters of the rival Shi'ite bloc. Moreover, security forces also fired tear gas canisters to disperse the supporters of both groups.

Why the protest?

As reported extensively by WION,&nbsp;Sadr and his legion of supporters have been on the streets of Iraq, protesting for months and batting for the dissolution of the parliament.

Reportedly, in the October parliamentary election last year,&nbsp;Sadr’s supporters had won the most seats. However, they were unable to form a government and since then, the country has been in a deadlock.

Moreover,&nbsp;Sadr calling for the resignation en-masse of his parliamentary bloc has provided the initiative to his&nbsp;Iran-backed Shia opponents, the Coordination Framework Alliance.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dissolve-the-parliament-influential-shiite-leader-moqtada-sadr-calls-for-fresh-elections-in-iraq-503371">'Dissolve the parliament': Influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr calls for fresh elections in Iraq</a>

To correct the course, earlier this month,&nbsp;thousands of followers of Sadr stormed Baghdad's Green Zone. Meanwhile, another faction took over the parliament building to prevent his opponents from forming a government.&nbsp;

Sadr counts millions of Iraqis among his followers and has shown he can still stir up gatherings by hundreds of thousands of supporters, mostly working-class Shi'ite Muslims if he needs to exert political pressure.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sadr-followers-hold-mass-prayer-outside-iraqi-parliament-in-show-of-force-506311">Sadr followers hold mass prayer outside Iraqi parliament in show of force</a>

(This is a developing story. More updates to follow)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Influential Iraqi Shi'ite leader Moqtada al-Sadr on Monday took to Twitter to announce his full withdrawal from political life. The move was surprising for many as his protesters have been blocking parliament for weeks now.

Influential Iraqi Shi'ite leader Moqtada al-Sadr on Monday took to Twitter to announce his full withdrawal from political life. The move was surprising for many as his protesters have been blocking parliament for weeks now. "I've decided not to meddle in political affairs. I, therefore, announce now my definitive retirement," read Sadr's tweet where he also announced that he was shutting his political offices and institutions in the country, following an unsalvagable political deadlock. pic.twitter.com/XKAzl1O3OP — مقتدى السيد محمد الصدر (@Mu_AlSadr) August 29, 2022 × According to an AFP report, live fire rocked Baghdad's Green Zone area in the evening as Sadr's supporters stormed the area. Witnesses on the ground stated that the shots were fired by supporters of the rival Shi'ite bloc. Moreover, security forces also fired tear gas canisters to disperse the supporters of both groups. Why the protest? As reported extensively by WION, Sadr and his legion of supporters have been on the streets of Iraq, protesting for months and batting for the dissolution of the parliament. Reportedly, in the October parliamentary election last year, Sadr’s supporters had won the most seats. However, they were unable to form a government and since then, the country has been in a deadlock. Moreover, Sadr calling for the resignation en-masse of his parliamentary bloc has provided the initiative to his Iran-backed Shia opponents, the Coordination Framework Alliance. Read more: 'Dissolve the parliament': Influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr calls for fresh elections in Iraq To correct the course, earlier this month, thousands of followers of Sadr stormed Baghdad's Green Zone. Meanwhile, another faction took over the parliament building to prevent his opponents from forming a government. Sadr counts millions of Iraqis among his followers and has shown he can still stir up gatherings by hundreds of thousands of supporters, mostly working-class Shi'ite Muslims if he needs to exert political pressure. Read more: Sadr followers hold mass prayer outside Iraqi parliament in show of force (This is a developing story. More updates to follow) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iraqi Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr says he's quitting politics in bombshell announcement

China has gained a major foothold in oil-rich Iraq, shaking up Western domination in fields from energy to construction, even as some warn that infrastructure projects could leave Baghdad in debt. Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post | China cements influence in Iraq through oil & infrastructure

Iraqi actress Enas Taleb is suing The Economist for using a picture of her to illustrate an article about Arab women being "fatter" than men. On The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis asks why the West thinks it is okay to dictate body standards for Arab women.

The West Asia Post: Iraqi actress is suing The Economist over 'fat' Arab women story

China is cementing its grip on war-torn Iraq with multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects. Iraq requires an estimated $88 billion for its post-war reconstruction. Palki Sharma explains China's objectives in Iraq.

Gravitas: China cements grip on war-torn Iraq

In Iraq, the drought has hit hard the flow of the Euphrates has dropped visibly in the recent months while scorching temperatures sometimes reached 50 degrees Celsius. In Saudi Arabia as well temperatures have gone up to 50 degrees Celsius, some are escaping to the city of fog.

WION Climate Tracker | Extreme heat hits Iraq and Saudi Arabia

Iraq's swamplands, they were once home to the biblical Garden of Eden and now the swamplands have been battered, hit by 3 years of drought and low rainfall. This comes as Iraq deals with a crippling water crisis, one that has turned lakes into pools of muddy water.

WION Climate Tracker | Drought threatens war-scarred Iraq's national security

On The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis: + Iran nuclear deal closer than ever? + Israel, Turkey to normalise ties + The plot whispers that triggered Iraq's power struggle + A look at the India-Middle East food corridor Every Friday at 8.30 pm IST | 3 pm GMT

The West Asia Post: Can the world salvage the Iran nuclear deal?

A cornea made from pig collagen has restored the sight of 20 people from India and Iraq. Reports say that the treatment is accessible for low and middle-income countries.

WION Fineprint | Cornea made from pig skin restores sight, minimally invasive treatment

Thousands of followers of Moqtada al-Sadr held a mass prayer outside the Iraqi parliament in Baghdad on Friday in a show of support for the powerful Shi'ite cleric who has called for Iraq's judiciary to dissolve the&nbsp;parliament by the end of next week.

Supporters of the populist leader have occupied the Iraqi parliament since July after a 10-month political stalemate that followed elections last October. Sadr was the biggest winner but failed to form a government free of Iranian-backed parties.

He withdrew his lawmakers from parliament and is now preventing the chamber from electing a new government and is demanding early elections.

On Wednesday, he said the judiciary must dissolve parliament by the end of next week. If not "the revolutionaries will take another stand", he said without elaborating.

Outside parliament on Friday thousands of Sadr supporters gathered for prayer. Most were dressed in black to mark the Muslim month of Muharram and some wore white capes symbolising burial shrouds and their willingness to die.

"You will not break Iraq as long as Sadr is here," an imam told the crowd from a big red stage set up outside parliament. "There is no going back from this revolution ... and the people will not give up their demands."

In the intense summer heat, men picked their way through the worshippers and sprayed them with cold water. Some carried portraits of Sadr and his father, also a prominent cleric, as well as Iraqi flags.

"We have revolted and there is no going back," said Mohammed Elwan, 40, carrying a portrait of Sadr.

Hamid Hussain, a father of five, said: "I am here to call for an early election and make sure that all the corrupt faces are excluded from the upcoming elections...I became unemployed because of the corrupt parties."

Sadr's opponents also accuse him of corruption. They say his loyalists have run some of Iraq's most corrupt and dysfunctional government departments.

Iran-aligned political groups were expected to hold their own demonstration later on Friday, the latest in a series of protest and counter-protest in recent days which have led to fears of unrest.

Sadr counts millions of Iraqis among his followers and has shown he can still stir up gatherings by hundreds of thousands of supporters, mostly working-class Shi'ite Muslims, if he needs to exert political pressure. 
 
His father Mohammed Sadiq al-Sadr was killed more than 20 years ago for his outspoken opposition to Saddam Hussein. When Saddam was toppled in a U.S.-led invasion in 2003 Sadr began an insurgency against the U.S. troops.

His new foes, however, are fellow Shi'ite leaders and parties mostly aligned with Iran, as Sadr has positioned himself as a nationalist who rejects foreign interference. Those groups, like Sadr, are backed by heavily armed militias, but do not hold the same sway as he does over masses of fanatical followers.

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Thousands of followers of Moqtada al-Sadr held a mass prayer outside the Iraqi parliament in Baghdad on Friday in a show of support for the powerful Shi'ite cleric who has called for Iraq's judiciary to dissolve the parliament by the end of next week.

Thousands of followers of Moqtada al-Sadr held a mass prayer outside the Iraqi parliament in Baghdad on Friday in a show of support for the powerful Shi'ite cleric who has called for Iraq's judiciary to dissolve the parliament by the end of next week. Supporters of the populist leader have occupied the Iraqi parliament since July after a 10-month political stalemate that followed elections last October. Sadr was the biggest winner but failed to form a government free of Iranian-backed parties. He withdrew his lawmakers from parliament and is now preventing the chamber from electing a new government and is demanding early elections. On Wednesday, he said the judiciary must dissolve parliament by the end of next week. If not "the revolutionaries will take another stand", he said without elaborating. Outside parliament on Friday thousands of Sadr supporters gathered for prayer. Most were dressed in black to mark the Muslim month of Muharram and some wore white capes symbolising burial shrouds and their willingness to die. "You will not break Iraq as long as Sadr is here," an imam told the crowd from a big red stage set up outside parliament. "There is no going back from this revolution ... and the people will not give up their demands." In the intense summer heat, men picked their way through the worshippers and sprayed them with cold water. Some carried portraits of Sadr and his father, also a prominent cleric, as well as Iraqi flags. "We have revolted and there is no going back," said Mohammed Elwan, 40, carrying a portrait of Sadr. Hamid Hussain, a father of five, said: "I am here to call for an early election and make sure that all the corrupt faces are excluded from the upcoming elections...I became unemployed because of the corrupt parties." Sadr's opponents also accuse him of corruption. They say his loyalists have run some of Iraq's most corrupt and dysfunctional government departments. Iran-aligned political groups were expected to hold their own demonstration later on Friday, the latest in a series of protest and counter-protest in recent days which have led to fears of unrest. Sadr counts millions of Iraqis among his followers and has shown he can still stir up gatherings by hundreds of thousands of supporters, mostly working-class Shi'ite Muslims, if he needs to exert political pressure. His father Mohammed Sadiq al-Sadr was killed more than 20 years ago for his outspoken opposition to Saddam Hussein. When Saddam was toppled in a U.S.-led invasion in 2003 Sadr began an insurgency against the U.S. troops. His new foes, however, are fellow Shi'ite leaders and parties mostly aligned with Iran, as Sadr has positioned himself as a nationalist who rejects foreign interference. Those groups, like Sadr, are backed by heavily armed militias, but do not hold the same sway as he does over masses of fanatical followers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sadr followers hold mass prayer outside Iraqi parliament in show of force

The reconstruction&nbsp;of Mosul's international airport, which was still in ruins five years after the conflict that drove the Islamic state group from the city, was officially launched on Wednesday by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi.

Since the recapture of Mosul by Iraqi forces assisted by a US-led international coalition in July 2017, entire areas of the northern metropolis have remained in debris.&nbsp;

Since the alleged jihadists took control of Mosul and the surrounding territories in 2014, the airport, which sustained significant damage during the conflict, has been abandoned.

In a formal ceremony, PM Kadhemi laid the cornerstone for the airport's renovation on the southern suburbs of Mosul.

<img alt="Iraq PM Al-Kadhimi lays the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Mosul International Airport. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ffb0b31-0b08-4285-917d-c8367097da95" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/upload_1660112822_1453634676.jpg" />

Iraq PM Al-Kadhimi lays the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Mosul International Airport. Photo credits: Iraqi News Agency

The reconstruction has been contracted to two Turkish businesses and is anticipated to take 24 months, according to airport director Haider Ali.&nbsp;

The 1.5 million-person metropolis has resumed some sort of normalcy despite the glacial pace of reconstruction: stores have reopened, traffic jams have returned, and international organisations have started supporting restoration initiatives for historical landmarks.

Huge obstacles still exist, though.

The Red Cross calculated that by the end of 2021, just 35% of people in west Mosul and less than 15% of people in east Mosul, which took the brunt of the war, had access to enough water to meet their daily needs.

In a statement sent by his office, Kadhemi was cited as saying that "great efforts" were being made to reconstruct the city.

According to the state news agency INA, a province official mentioned a $266 million budget in January for significant rehabilitation projects, particularly in the health, education, and transportation sectors for 2021–2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The reconstruction of Mosul's international airport, which was still in ruins five years after the conflict that drove the Islamic state group from the city, was officially launched on Wednesday by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi.

The reconstruction of Mosul's international airport, which was still in ruins five years after the conflict that drove the Islamic state group from the city, was officially launched on Wednesday by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi. Since the recapture of Mosul by Iraqi forces assisted by a US-led international coalition in July 2017, entire areas of the northern metropolis have remained in debris. Since the alleged jihadists took control of Mosul and the surrounding territories in 2014, the airport, which sustained significant damage during the conflict, has been abandoned. In a formal ceremony, PM Kadhemi laid the cornerstone for the airport's renovation on the southern suburbs of Mosul. Iraq PM Al-Kadhimi lays the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Mosul International Airport. Photo credits: Iraqi News Agency The reconstruction has been contracted to two Turkish businesses and is anticipated to take 24 months, according to airport director Haider Ali. The 1.5 million-person metropolis has resumed some sort of normalcy despite the glacial pace of reconstruction: stores have reopened, traffic jams have returned, and international organisations have started supporting restoration initiatives for historical landmarks. Huge obstacles still exist, though. The Red Cross calculated that by the end of 2021, just 35% of people in west Mosul and less than 15% of people in east Mosul, which took the brunt of the war, had access to enough water to meet their daily needs. In a statement sent by his office, Kadhemi was cited as saying that "great efforts" were being made to reconstruct the city. According to the state news agency INA, a province official mentioned a $266 million budget in January for significant rehabilitation projects, particularly in the health, education, and transportation sectors for 2021–2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq begins work on reconstructing the Mosul airport

A battle for Shiite dominance is going on in a war scarred nation Iraq. Al-Sadr supporters are still sitting inside the parliament. The Iraqi cleric is calling for a dissolution of the parliament and a tassel over a new government has trained the already fragile political system.

Iraq’s Al-Sadr vows to continue parliament sit-in until demands met

A battle for Shiite dominance is going on in the war-scarred nation of Iraq. Security forces use tear gas & rubber bullets as Protests continue to rock Iraq.

Protests continue to rock Iraq: Security forces use tear gas & rubber bullets

Demanding that parliament be dissolved, influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr called for fresh elections in Iraq on Wednesday.

Highlighting that he has "no interest" in negotiating with his rivals, Sadr said Iraq has been without a government for nearly 10 months.

In protest at a rival Shiite faction's nomination for a prime minister, Sadr's supporters occupied parliament for a fifth consecutive day.

Taking over the parliament building to prevent his opponents from forming a government, thousands of followers of Sadr stormed Baghdad's Green Zone last week.

Calling his moves a coup and demanding his supporters leave parliament, Sadr's rivals then staged Monday's counter-protest outside the Green Zone.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-sadrist-movement-to-coordination-framework-who-are-iraqs-competing-shiite-groups-502709">From Sadrist movement to Coordination Framework: Who are Iraq’s competing Shi’ite groups</a>

The rival protests a dangerous prospect for Iraq and threatens to drag it into more violence, each side is backed by heavily-armed paramilitaries.

Accusing powerful parties and militias of making a mockery of the demonstrations in 2019, Iraqi activists blame them for the country being mired in dysfunction despite its vast oil wealth and relative peace in recent years.

Sadr's social-political Sadrist Movement has been widely accused of corruption and nepotism that sent Iraq into chaos as the Islamic State took over a third of the country in 2014.

Denying they have mismanaged state institutions and stolen money, Iraq's main Shi'ite leaders share power with large but less influential Sunni and Kurdish parties.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Demanding that parliament be dissolved, influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr called for fresh elections in Iraq on Wednesday. Highlighting that he has "no interest" in negotiating with his rivals, Sadr said Iraq has been without a government for nearly 10 months.

Demanding that parliament be dissolved, influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr called for fresh elections in Iraq on Wednesday. Highlighting that he has "no interest" in negotiating with his rivals, Sadr said Iraq has been without a government for nearly 10 months. In protest at a rival Shiite faction's nomination for a prime minister, Sadr's supporters occupied parliament for a fifth consecutive day. Taking over the parliament building to prevent his opponents from forming a government, thousands of followers of Sadr stormed Baghdad's Green Zone last week. Calling his moves a coup and demanding his supporters leave parliament, Sadr's rivals then staged Monday's counter-protest outside the Green Zone. Also see | From Sadrist movement to Coordination Framework: Who are Iraq’s competing Shi’ite groups The rival protests a dangerous prospect for Iraq and threatens to drag it into more violence, each side is backed by heavily-armed paramilitaries. Accusing powerful parties and militias of making a mockery of the demonstrations in 2019, Iraqi activists blame them for the country being mired in dysfunction despite its vast oil wealth and relative peace in recent years. Sadr's social-political Sadrist Movement has been widely accused of corruption and nepotism that sent Iraq into chaos as the Islamic State took over a third of the country in 2014. Denying they have mismanaged state institutions and stolen money, Iraq's main Shi'ite leaders share power with large but less influential Sunni and Kurdish parties. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Dissolve the parliament': Influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr calls for fresh elections in Iraq

Iraq's Al-Sadr told his supporters to continue their sit-in inside the national parliament in Baghdad until his demands of dissolution of the parliament and early elections are met.

Iraq’s Al-Sadr demands early elections, dissolution of parliament

From Sadrist movement to Coordination Framework: Who are Iraq’s competing Shi’ite groups

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