Iraq – Analysts warn about worsening political crisis

Location: Baghdad – Iraq

Language: Arabic

Duration: 00:04:30

Sound: natural

Source: A24 in Baghdad

Restrictions: A24 subscribers

Date: 21/08/ 2022

Storyline:

Political crisis is still looming over Iraq, as Coordination Framework leaders, supporting formation of a consensus government headed by Muhammad Shia al-Sudani, search for alternative solutions to obtain the approval of Sadrist movement; insistent on dissolving parliament and holding parliamentary elections.

Political analysts told A24 it is impossible for political blocs to reach agreement to resolve the political crisis without first reaching agreement with Muqtada al-Sadr, who boycotted national dialogue sessions held recently at the Government Palace in Baghdad. Analysts added that the dialogue sessions should be held in public on TV channels instead of behind closed doors.

Analysts told A24 that holding dialogue or parliament sessions without political blocs reaching agreement will exacerbate the political crisis and cause serious clashes among political parties. They noted that opposing political blocs need to sit at the negotiation table to prevent further conflict.

Shotlist:

– Soundbite (Abbas Al-Jubouri – Political Analyst)

“Al-Sadr yesterday requested an open dialogue in public on TV channels, as he did not want it to be behind closed doors. Coordination Framework wants to hold a session but is unable to without political parties reaching agreement. Coordination Framework cannot hold a session without reaching agreement with al-Sadr.”

– Soundbite (Noor Al-Moussawi – Political writer)

“Coordination Framework latest announcement yesterday was to hold a session with the attendance of Muhammad Shia al-Sudani, which is a trigger for conflict. They should reach a final solution and agreement that would lead to holding a parliament session or dialogue session. Otherwise crisis will exacerbate and Iraqi people will continue to suffer.”

– Soundbite (Kamel Al Kaabi – Political reporter)

“Sadrist movement and Muqtada al-Sadr disapprove of each candidate nominated, which causes more escalation that affects Iraqis. We advise opposing political blocs to sit at the negotiation table to prevent further conflict among political parties.”