Iraq’s latest PM-designate, Mustafa Kadhimi, looks like he’s got more international backing than previous candidates, and this might be a difference that will allow him to form a government, and prepare for new elections.
Recent designees were endorsed by either the US or Iran, and rejected by the other. Kadhimi was quickly endorsed by Iran, and now Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the US supports him as well. Jordan has also congratulated him.
Since the 2003 US invasion, forming a government in Iraq has meant getting tacit approval, at minimum, from the US and Iran. Anyone who fails with one won’t last long. The anti-government protests are another complicating factor.
The protesters have been condemning the political class for being too heavily controlled by foreign forces, and want a candidate who will stake out a more independent position. That Kadhimi is endorsed by so many nations probably means he’ll be rejected by the protesters.
Protesters. Please. The core is US financed and directed. And angry, unemployed youth are drawn to it like moths to the flame. They will not be happy the moment the government moves a foot in a US undesirable direction. Just watch it. The mantra of being “against all foreign influence” is meant to be against Iran. Did not see the same crowd protest the assassination of Shia leader. Nor were they visible in the protests demanding US troops withdrawal. And they defied Al-Sadr on a number of issues. They exposed themselves as pro-American, and will not be trusted. Protests will happen, but will no longer follow any script.
Iraq has been an occupied country since 2003.
Well, there was that brief intermission in 2011 when Obama pulled out over a failed SOFA agreement.
I protest. I did not vote for the Iraqi Prime Minister.
I demand my rights as a non-citizen of Iraq to totally interfere with their internal affairs.