Iraq's recent elections were in large part driven by a protest movement that erupted two years ago, denouncing government corruption and lack of services. Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi is vying for a second term while trying to balance relations with the U.S. which still has 2,500 troops in Iraq and Iran, which supports powerful militia in Iraq. Special correspondent Simona Foltyn reports.
of insufficient evidence.
“As long as armed militia continue to operate in Iraq with impunity, there will not be the stability and prosperity that Iraqis deserve,” Stephen Hickey, the British ambassador to Iraq, told
The National.
Tensions in Baghdad skyrocketed immediately after the arrest, with PMF fighters taking to the streets around the offices of Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi, prompting the deployment of
Iraqi security forces and the elite Counter-Terrorism Service to protect the government and diplomatic missions.
“We appreciate the government’s efforts to hold these groups to account and call on all Iraqi leaders and politicians to support the government in this regard,” Mr Hickey said.
Iraq: Arrest of paramilitary commander sparks fears of violent confrontation middleeasteye.net - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from middleeasteye.net Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.