Thursday, September 20, 2007
Dawa Party reiterates commitment to UIC
Politics
(Voices of Iraq) - The Daawa Party-Iraq has reiterated its commitment to the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition (UIC), denying reports that indicate its withdrawal from the bloc. "We continue to support Nouri al-Maliki's government and our main aim is to tackle all pending issues inside the UIC," the leader of the party, Abdul Kareem al-Anzi, said at a press conference held on Wednesday in Baghdad.
He denied reports that indicated its withdrawal from the UIC, but said they will work towards a strong coalition. Al-Anzi said last Sunday that the party may withdraw from the Shiite UIC if efforts to heal the rift within the Shiite alliance fail. The party's MP Abd al-Mousawi said that the Daawa Party had announced its commitment to the unified national government, underlining the importance of the presence of the Fadhila party and the Sadrist bloc in the UIC.
The party holds 13 seats out of the 83-seat UIC. The UIC was composed of several (Shiite) religious and political organizations and parties that entered the first legislative elections in Iraq to be held after foreign troops entered the country and unseated the regime in April 2003. The UIC now has 83 seats, after two members on the Risalyoon list, an offshoot of the Sadrist bloc, quit in solidarity. The step was preceded by the withdrawal of the Islamic Fadhila (Virtue) Party, which had 15 seats in March 2007.
He denied reports that indicated its withdrawal from the UIC, but said they will work towards a strong coalition. Al-Anzi said last Sunday that the party may withdraw from the Shiite UIC if efforts to heal the rift within the Shiite alliance fail. The party's MP Abd al-Mousawi said that the Daawa Party had announced its commitment to the unified national government, underlining the importance of the presence of the Fadhila party and the Sadrist bloc in the UIC.
The party holds 13 seats out of the 83-seat UIC. The UIC was composed of several (Shiite) religious and political organizations and parties that entered the first legislative elections in Iraq to be held after foreign troops entered the country and unseated the regime in April 2003. The UIC now has 83 seats, after two members on the Risalyoon list, an offshoot of the Sadrist bloc, quit in solidarity. The step was preceded by the withdrawal of the Islamic Fadhila (Virtue) Party, which had 15 seats in March 2007.
Labels: Abdul Kareem al-Anzi, Dawa party, Fadhela party, Risalyoon list, Sadrist bloc, Unified Iraqi Coalition
Monday, September 17, 2007
Dawa Party may withdraw from UIC
Politics
(Voices of Iraq) - The Daawa Party-Iraq Organization may withdraw from the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition (UIC) if efforts to heal the rift within the Shiite alliance fail, the leader of the party, Abdul Kareem al-Anzy, said on Sunday. The decision comes less than 24 hours after the defection of the Sadrist bloc from the UIC, the largest parliamentary bloc in the Iraqi parliament.
In statements to the independent news agency Voices of Iraq (VOI), al-Anzi said that his party, which holds 13 seats in the 275-member parliament, will make every effort to "mend the rift within the coalition." "If our attempts prove unsuccessful, we will seriously consider forming an alliance with the Sadr movement, al-Fadila Party, and others," al-Anzi added.
Al-Anzi held Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki responsible for the subsequent withdrawal of the coalition's components, claiming that divisions have reached the Islamic Daawa party, led by al-Maliki, and described the Sadrist bloc's defection as a "strike to the core." "Al-Maliki made a strategic mistake when he joined the four-way alliance without consulting his coalition," al-Anzi noted.
The Islamic Daawa Party, the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council (SIIC), and the two main Kurdish parties formed a four-way alliance in mid-August that they said aims at backing the current Iraqi government following the withdrawal of some political blocs from the cabinet.
In statements to the independent news agency Voices of Iraq (VOI), al-Anzi said that his party, which holds 13 seats in the 275-member parliament, will make every effort to "mend the rift within the coalition." "If our attempts prove unsuccessful, we will seriously consider forming an alliance with the Sadr movement, al-Fadila Party, and others," al-Anzi added.
Al-Anzi held Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki responsible for the subsequent withdrawal of the coalition's components, claiming that divisions have reached the Islamic Daawa party, led by al-Maliki, and described the Sadrist bloc's defection as a "strike to the core." "Al-Maliki made a strategic mistake when he joined the four-way alliance without consulting his coalition," al-Anzi noted.
The Islamic Daawa Party, the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council (SIIC), and the two main Kurdish parties formed a four-way alliance in mid-August that they said aims at backing the current Iraqi government following the withdrawal of some political blocs from the cabinet.
Labels: Abdul Kareem al-Anzy, alliance, Dawa party, Fadhela party, Sadr bloc, United Iraqi Coalition
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Iraqi politicians react positively to Petraeus' report
Politics
(Gulf News) - Most of the Iraqi political elite have expressed their relief at the long-awaited testimony of General David Petraeus and the American Ambassador in Baghdad Ryan Crocker to the US Congress debating Iraq's situation. Omar Abdul Sattar, a prominent leader in the Sunni Islamic Party of the Accordance Front, told Gulf News: "As for General Petraeus' testimony about the security situation in Iraq, the General managed to put the facts and he expressed them so accurately unlike Ambassador Crocker."
He added: "Americans, according to Petraeus, succeeded in the Sunni Al Anbar province and formed local leaders to fight Al Qaida and this is a significant security achievement and I think Americans will go ahead after the testimony to enhance the formation of a local leader policy to maintain security in Iraq."
The former Minster of Culture in the Kurdistan region, Sami Shorish close to Kurdistan President Massoud Barzani, told Gulf News: "Iraqi leaders, especially the Kurds, are very optimistic about the Petraeus-Crocker report unlike the Baker-Hamilton report particularly on what General Petraeus said about a significant improvement in the security situation in Baghdad and Al Anbar provinces." We were also optimistic about statements concerning the Syrian-Iranian threat (to Iraqi stability), he added.
Abu Akbar Al Saadi, a prominent leader in the Supreme Islamic Council led by Abdul Aziz Al Hakim, told Gulf News: "The report was balanced and General Petraeus was successful in determining the main factors to maintain the security situation and there are indeed security achievements on the ground, especially changing the Iraqi Sunni attitude against Al Qaida, besides Petraeus' remarks concerning Iran and Syria represent a conformist view with the Iraqi government because the neighbouring countries have an important role in sustaining security and stability in Iraq."
Notably most of Iraq's political elites are satisfied with the Petraeus testimony for two reasons, firstly his remarks about progress regarding the security situation, and secondly: his praise of the role of Iraqi security forces in addressing terrorism.
Hashim Al Hashimi, a leader in the Fadhila Party, told Gulf News: "I affirmed what General Petraeus mentioned about achieving security progress but what Ambassador Crocker said was confusing about the political situation."
Talal Al Saadi, a leader in the Shiite Sadr trend, told Gulf News: "The Petraeus-Crocker report does not mean anything to the trend. The important thing to us is to schedule the American troops' withdrawal from Iraq. As for the security situation in the Al Anbar Province, I think it is a fallacy because the Americans armed former members of Al Qaida to strike Al Qaida and this is a dangerous matter and will cause catastrophe to Iraq."
He added: "Americans, according to Petraeus, succeeded in the Sunni Al Anbar province and formed local leaders to fight Al Qaida and this is a significant security achievement and I think Americans will go ahead after the testimony to enhance the formation of a local leader policy to maintain security in Iraq."
The former Minster of Culture in the Kurdistan region, Sami Shorish close to Kurdistan President Massoud Barzani, told Gulf News: "Iraqi leaders, especially the Kurds, are very optimistic about the Petraeus-Crocker report unlike the Baker-Hamilton report particularly on what General Petraeus said about a significant improvement in the security situation in Baghdad and Al Anbar provinces." We were also optimistic about statements concerning the Syrian-Iranian threat (to Iraqi stability), he added.
Abu Akbar Al Saadi, a prominent leader in the Supreme Islamic Council led by Abdul Aziz Al Hakim, told Gulf News: "The report was balanced and General Petraeus was successful in determining the main factors to maintain the security situation and there are indeed security achievements on the ground, especially changing the Iraqi Sunni attitude against Al Qaida, besides Petraeus' remarks concerning Iran and Syria represent a conformist view with the Iraqi government because the neighbouring countries have an important role in sustaining security and stability in Iraq."
Notably most of Iraq's political elites are satisfied with the Petraeus testimony for two reasons, firstly his remarks about progress regarding the security situation, and secondly: his praise of the role of Iraqi security forces in addressing terrorism.
Hashim Al Hashimi, a leader in the Fadhila Party, told Gulf News: "I affirmed what General Petraeus mentioned about achieving security progress but what Ambassador Crocker said was confusing about the political situation."
Talal Al Saadi, a leader in the Shiite Sadr trend, told Gulf News: "The Petraeus-Crocker report does not mean anything to the trend. The important thing to us is to schedule the American troops' withdrawal from Iraq. As for the security situation in the Al Anbar Province, I think it is a fallacy because the Americans armed former members of Al Qaida to strike Al Qaida and this is a dangerous matter and will cause catastrophe to Iraq."
Labels: Abu Akbar Al Saadi, Fadhela party, General David Petraeus, Hashim Al Hashimi, Iraqi Accordance Front, Omar Abdul Sattar, Ryan Crocker, Sadr bloc, Sami Shorish, SIIC, Talal Al Saadi
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Conference Held For Basrah’s Political Powers
Politics
(Al Mashriq Newspaper) - 10 SEP - Yesterday, Basrah’s Sadr Office held a conference which was attended by political and religious powers. The attendees included: Representatives of the “National Movement” (a small political front) which consists of eight democratic parties, and Saabists, (a minority religious group). Fadhila Party did not attend this conference; because, Fadhila Party has “deep disputes” with the Sadr Office.
Sheikh Abd Al Razaq Al Nadawi, the Manager of the Sadr Office in Basrah called for the issuing of a “fatwa” which forbids Iraqi bloodshed. And (Sheikh Al Nadawi), also called for the Chiefs (Sheikhs) of all the Tribes to: stop disputes, and work to achieve “unified speech and positions” (common ground). Then, Al Nadawi asked the Civil Community Organizations to: activate dialogue and National Reconciliation…and adopt “national attitudes” to deal with all opinions.
[It is worthy to note that] This Conference was held after the huge celebrations…which began on Friday… after the British forces signed the decision to withdraw their troops from (Basrah’s) Presidential Palaces. The celebration (marches, parades, and convoys of cars loaded with rejoicing people) ended in Basrah’s Al Hussein area…which is the (area of Basrah with) the most Mahdi Army “bases.”
Al Nadawi (the Manager of the Sadr Office in Basrah) also warned American troops not to enter Basrah; he said, “The Occupation forces are not included in the truce! ‘Freezing’ Mahdi Army activities do not include ‘freezing’ its actions against American troops!" According to many observers, the Sadr Office in Basrah held this conference… called the “Security and Stabilization Conference”… in order to:
Calm the local and national government, and
Decrease local residents’ fears that the Mahdi Army will take control of (all) of Basrah’s security and community services…after the British withdraw from Basrah’s Presidential Palaces.
Basrah’s “Operations Commander” – General Mohan Hafidh said, during the conference, that the (Iraqi) Security Forces have the ability to maintain security (keep the peace)…if the people, parties, and social sects cooperate with the security forces. He also said that the mission of his forces is to: pressure criminals and outlaws to abandon their own (selfish) loyalties. He also said: the (Iraqi) aircraft will soon arrive…within two weeks from now.
Sheikh Abd Al Razaq Al Nadawi, the Manager of the Sadr Office in Basrah called for the issuing of a “fatwa” which forbids Iraqi bloodshed. And (Sheikh Al Nadawi), also called for the Chiefs (Sheikhs) of all the Tribes to: stop disputes, and work to achieve “unified speech and positions” (common ground). Then, Al Nadawi asked the Civil Community Organizations to: activate dialogue and National Reconciliation…and adopt “national attitudes” to deal with all opinions.
[It is worthy to note that] This Conference was held after the huge celebrations…which began on Friday… after the British forces signed the decision to withdraw their troops from (Basrah’s) Presidential Palaces. The celebration (marches, parades, and convoys of cars loaded with rejoicing people) ended in Basrah’s Al Hussein area…which is the (area of Basrah with) the most Mahdi Army “bases.”
Al Nadawi (the Manager of the Sadr Office in Basrah) also warned American troops not to enter Basrah; he said, “The Occupation forces are not included in the truce! ‘Freezing’ Mahdi Army activities do not include ‘freezing’ its actions against American troops!" According to many observers, the Sadr Office in Basrah held this conference… called the “Security and Stabilization Conference”… in order to:
Calm the local and national government, and
Decrease local residents’ fears that the Mahdi Army will take control of (all) of Basrah’s security and community services…after the British withdraw from Basrah’s Presidential Palaces.
Basrah’s “Operations Commander” – General Mohan Hafidh said, during the conference, that the (Iraqi) Security Forces have the ability to maintain security (keep the peace)…if the people, parties, and social sects cooperate with the security forces. He also said that the mission of his forces is to: pressure criminals and outlaws to abandon their own (selfish) loyalties. He also said: the (Iraqi) aircraft will soon arrive…within two weeks from now.
Labels: Basrah, Fadhela party, fatwas, General Mohan Hafidh, National Movement, Saabists, Sadr office, Sheikh Abd Al Razaq Al Nadawi, tribes
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Fadhila Party May Return To The Government
Politics
(Al Bayyna Newspaper) - 3 SEP - Despite all the media reports saying that the Fadhila Party will stay out of the government, Fadhila Party sources confirmed that they have a real desire to rejoin Al Maliki’s government. On going discussions are taking place in order for their return to the government. They have reached a decision that the Fadhila Party will end their boycott of the government. A source told Al Bayyna Newspaper, “The campaign against the Prime Minister and against the political process has made us reconsider our attitude.” Regarding the Fadhila Party’s demands the source said, “Our return to the government is unconditional and it is not based on ministerial benefits. This is a political decision and it is best for the Iraqi political process.”
Labels: Fadhela party, Iraqi government
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Militias fight for control of Basra
Security
(Azzaman) - The most powerful authority in Basra is not the British garrison where more than 5,000 British troops have withdrawn behind barbed wire and cement blocks. It is the Iranian consulate where major decisions regarding the city are taken. And it is not difficult to see who is in control of the city’s thoroughfares and residential quarters. The roundabouts, major squares and even some small streets and neighborhoods are decorated with portraits of Iranian religious and political leaders.
Basra is perhaps Iraq’s most important province from which most of the country’s oil production and exports originate. Within Basra’s provincial borders, the country’s most prolific oil fields are to be found. When bombs fall on the British garrison in the city or a British armored vehicle is knocked out, many of Basra residents celebrate with gunfire and shouts of joy.
The Brits have left a huge power vacuum in southern Iraq in the aftermath of their miscalculated adventure. Their influence does not exceed the few square miles of their only base in Basra. And the militias have rushed to fill in the vacuum, spreading their control over key establishments including oil installations and dividing the city into separate zones of influence.
The country’s three most influential Shiite factions have their own heavily armed militias. Though in bitter rivalry, they are almost unanimous in their tactics to inflict a humiliating defeat on Britain by forcing it to withdraw its troops. Many of Basra intellectuals and members of its once thriving religious minorities – such as Christians and Mandeans – have fled the city. The militias have their own rules and systems of governing which they impose on their subjects and areas.
Hameed Hussain who fled the city recently says the Iraqi police and army are not in control of the city. “Practically, the militias have the city under their sway.” An oil engineer, Ali Hatroush, who also fled the city in the past few weeks, says the British troops no longer have the power or capacity to “to rein in the militias.” “The fundamentalists are the ones who run the city. They have devised their own means and ways of how to control the people and the resources and liquidate those opposing them,” he said.
Abdulkareem Saleh, who used to work at Basra port, said he was sad to see how young people were lured to join the political factions advocating militancy. “The factions rely on religious slogans and high-ranking clergy to deceive the population. It is really disappointing to see how young Iraqis are being coaxed to join their murderous militias,” he said.
The rival factions are represented in the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Nonetheless they are the ones undermining official authority. For example, the Fadhila party which controls the administrations has 15 deputies in the parliament but has refused to disband its militias. Other groups like the Sadr bloc has 30 deputies and seven ministers in the cabinet but has strongly rejected calls to disarm its powerful military wing, the Mahdi Army. The other influential group the Supreme Council, a major partner in Maliki’s coalition government, is reported to have one the most heavily armed militias in the country.
Basra is perhaps Iraq’s most important province from which most of the country’s oil production and exports originate. Within Basra’s provincial borders, the country’s most prolific oil fields are to be found. When bombs fall on the British garrison in the city or a British armored vehicle is knocked out, many of Basra residents celebrate with gunfire and shouts of joy.
The Brits have left a huge power vacuum in southern Iraq in the aftermath of their miscalculated adventure. Their influence does not exceed the few square miles of their only base in Basra. And the militias have rushed to fill in the vacuum, spreading their control over key establishments including oil installations and dividing the city into separate zones of influence.
The country’s three most influential Shiite factions have their own heavily armed militias. Though in bitter rivalry, they are almost unanimous in their tactics to inflict a humiliating defeat on Britain by forcing it to withdraw its troops. Many of Basra intellectuals and members of its once thriving religious minorities – such as Christians and Mandeans – have fled the city. The militias have their own rules and systems of governing which they impose on their subjects and areas.
Hameed Hussain who fled the city recently says the Iraqi police and army are not in control of the city. “Practically, the militias have the city under their sway.” An oil engineer, Ali Hatroush, who also fled the city in the past few weeks, says the British troops no longer have the power or capacity to “to rein in the militias.” “The fundamentalists are the ones who run the city. They have devised their own means and ways of how to control the people and the resources and liquidate those opposing them,” he said.
Abdulkareem Saleh, who used to work at Basra port, said he was sad to see how young people were lured to join the political factions advocating militancy. “The factions rely on religious slogans and high-ranking clergy to deceive the population. It is really disappointing to see how young Iraqis are being coaxed to join their murderous militias,” he said.
The rival factions are represented in the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Nonetheless they are the ones undermining official authority. For example, the Fadhila party which controls the administrations has 15 deputies in the parliament but has refused to disband its militias. Other groups like the Sadr bloc has 30 deputies and seven ministers in the cabinet but has strongly rejected calls to disarm its powerful military wing, the Mahdi Army. The other influential group the Supreme Council, a major partner in Maliki’s coalition government, is reported to have one the most heavily armed militias in the country.
Labels: Basra, British troops, Fadhela party, Iranian consulate, Mahdi Army, militias, Sadr bloc, SIIC
Friday, August 03, 2007
Situation in Basra shaky as political parties wrangle for control
Politics
(UPI) - Politics in Iraq's oil capital, Basra, are tense as its governor faces dismissal amid allegations Shiite parties are angling for control. Iraqi media reports indicate the area, where the vast majority of Iraq's 1.5 million barrels per day of oil exports are sent to market, is in danger of becoming inflamed. Mohammed Musbah al-Wa'ili, a Fadhila Party member and governor of Basra province, was dismissed in a vote dominated by another party, the Supreme Iraqi Islamic Council.
SIIC is one of two major Shiite parties in Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's governing coalition. Fadhila was a partner until it withdrew earlier this year over disagreements with Maliki's leadership. The Sadr Movement, another Shiite party with weight in Basra, has also quit Maliki's coalition, as has the largest Sunni bloc, the Accord Front.
Maliki was asked to overturn the council's vote on Wa'ili but refused. "I will appeal to the Iraqi Judicial System," Asarq al-Awsat reports Wa'ili saying. It goes on to say the Fadhila Party accuses the parties with more power in Baghdad of attempting to obtain power in Basra. It says a proposed federal oil law, which SIIC supports, will give local authorities more decision-making powers in the oil sector.
The law is far from approved as numerous political, religious and ethnic factions, as well as unions and civil society, are at odds over how strong the federal government's arm should be in the oil sector and to what extent foreign companies should be allowed. The Azzaman newspaper reports the Fadhila Party is urging its followers not to launch massive protests, as was planned, as negotiations continue.
Labels: Basra, Fadhela party, Mohammed Musbah al-Wa'ili, Sadr movement, SIIC
Concern grows among Iraqi politicians following IAF withdrawal
Politics
(Voices of Iraq) - Iraqi politicians demonstrated their concerns about the implications of the Sunni Iraqi Accordance Front's (IAF) withdrawal from the government for the future of the Iraqi political process. Stressing the Iraqi political process's need for reform, MP Maisoon al-Damlouji from the Iraqi National Slate told the independent news agency Voices of Iraq (VOI), "The political process, which is based on a sectarian quota system, is about to fall. We have to handle the situation before reaching the point of no return."
Urging Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to listen to the IAF's demands, al-Damlouji said that constructive dialogue at the current time is necessary for discussing all unresolved issues. "The IAF, the National Slate, the Sadrist movement, al-Fadila Party and the National Dialogue Front (NDF) are equally dissatisfied with the current situation… The Iraqi prime minister must listen to what we are saying before it is too late," al-Damlouji indicated.
The mostly secular Iraqi National Slate, led by former Prime Minister Iyad Allawi, holds 24 seats in the Iraqi parliament. Khalaf al-Alian, a leading IAF member, described the current Iraqi political process as a "failure" and indicated that the departure of his front, along with the Sadrist movement, from the government is a clear sign that al-Maliki's government is becoming increasingly unpopular in the Iraqi street. According to al-Alian, al-Maliki has two choices: to form a government of independent technocrats or to step down in favor of a more qualified person.
Meanwhile, MP Ali al-Alaq from the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition (UIC), the largest parliamentary bloc with 111 seats, told VOI that the IAF's decision does not necessarily indicate retrogression in the political process, which he is said is "working fine."
Displaying pessimism about the future of the Iraqi political process, Hadi Aliwa, a political analyst, held the Iraqi government and parliamentary blocs responsible for the "failure" to reach political consensus. "Each bloc is working on its own. Several regional and international factors, the most important of which is the U.S. occupation, are affecting the political process," Aliwa explained.
The mostly secular Iraqi National Slate, led by former Prime Minister Iyad Allawi, holds 24 seats in the Iraqi parliament. Khalaf al-Alian, a leading IAF member, described the current Iraqi political process as a "failure" and indicated that the departure of his front, along with the Sadrist movement, from the government is a clear sign that al-Maliki's government is becoming increasingly unpopular in the Iraqi street. According to al-Alian, al-Maliki has two choices: to form a government of independent technocrats or to step down in favor of a more qualified person.
Meanwhile, MP Ali al-Alaq from the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition (UIC), the largest parliamentary bloc with 111 seats, told VOI that the IAF's decision does not necessarily indicate retrogression in the political process, which he is said is "working fine."
Displaying pessimism about the future of the Iraqi political process, Hadi Aliwa, a political analyst, held the Iraqi government and parliamentary blocs responsible for the "failure" to reach political consensus. "Each bloc is working on its own. Several regional and international factors, the most important of which is the U.S. occupation, are affecting the political process," Aliwa explained.
Labels: Fadhela party, Iraqi Accordance Front, Iraqi National Slate, Maisoon al-Damlouji, National Dialogue Front, Sadrist bloc, Tawafuq Front, Unified Iraqi Coalition
Monday, June 11, 2007
Al-Maliki urges military to thwart possible coup
Politics
(Azzaman) - Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has asked his military commanders to confront any attempt to topple him as political factions have joined efforts to unseat him. Maliki accused his political opponents of seeking help from abroad to stage what he described as ‘a coup’ against his government.
Several political parties with representatives in the parliament are openly opposing the way Maliki has been handling issues related to security but particularly their concerns regarding national reconciliation. “Some parties which are part of the political process are involved in staging a coup against the Iraqi government,” said Sami al-Askari, a senior member of Maliki’s coalition government.
Several political parties with representatives in the parliament are openly opposing the way Maliki has been handling issues related to security but particularly their concerns regarding national reconciliation. “Some parties which are part of the political process are involved in staging a coup against the Iraqi government,” said Sami al-Askari, a senior member of Maliki’s coalition government.
Tareq al-Hashemi, a vice-president, and head of the main Sunni faction in parliament, is on a tour of Arab states and has hinted that a new ‘moderate front’ to counterbalance Maliki’s coalition was being formed. Maliki draws most of his support from Kurdish factions who have a large bloc in the parliament. His coalition was dealt a blow when Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr said he was not happy with his performance.
A meeting in Cairo which brought together several parties among them small Kurdish factions seems to have unnerved the government. Ayad Allawi, a former prime minister, as well as Hashemi and the leader of a Kurdish Islamic party met in Cairo with the aim of setting up a ‘secular’ government. Maliki is reported to have rushed to Iraqi Kurdistan to secure support from his traditional Kurdish allies, Jalal Talabani, the Iraqi President and Massoud Barzani, head of the Kurdish autonomous region.
These factions hope to form a united front against the current government but they still lack backing from within the mainstream Shiite parties. Invitations to attend the Cairo meeting were sent to the Shiite al-Fadhila party which holds power in the southern city of Basra and the more powerful Shiite movement of cleric Moqtada Sadr’s supporters.
Amar Wajeeh, a senior member of Hashemi’s Islamic Party, confirmed that a joint front has been established to confront Maliki. He said the front was established in Cairo when it became clear that Maliki and his coalition were thwarting attempts to form a moderate coalition. Wajeeh said the front was still waiting a response from Fadhila and has sent a letter inviting Sadr’s group to join. Wajeeh said there was no truth behind reports that the front was staging a ‘coup.’ He said the front would use democratic means and try to gather enough votes in the parliament to bring about change.
A meeting in Cairo which brought together several parties among them small Kurdish factions seems to have unnerved the government. Ayad Allawi, a former prime minister, as well as Hashemi and the leader of a Kurdish Islamic party met in Cairo with the aim of setting up a ‘secular’ government. Maliki is reported to have rushed to Iraqi Kurdistan to secure support from his traditional Kurdish allies, Jalal Talabani, the Iraqi President and Massoud Barzani, head of the Kurdish autonomous region.
These factions hope to form a united front against the current government but they still lack backing from within the mainstream Shiite parties. Invitations to attend the Cairo meeting were sent to the Shiite al-Fadhila party which holds power in the southern city of Basra and the more powerful Shiite movement of cleric Moqtada Sadr’s supporters.
Amar Wajeeh, a senior member of Hashemi’s Islamic Party, confirmed that a joint front has been established to confront Maliki. He said the front was established in Cairo when it became clear that Maliki and his coalition were thwarting attempts to form a moderate coalition. Wajeeh said the front was still waiting a response from Fadhila and has sent a letter inviting Sadr’s group to join. Wajeeh said there was no truth behind reports that the front was staging a ‘coup.’ He said the front would use democratic means and try to gather enough votes in the parliament to bring about change.
Labels: Ayad Allawi, coup, Fadhela party, Nouri Al-Maliki, Sami al-Askari, Tareq al-Hashemi
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Iraqi parliament votes on UN mandate for foreign troops
Politics
(Al Jazeera) - Iraqi politicians have passed a resolution requiring the government to seek parliamentary permission before asking the UN to extend the mandate for US-led forces in Iraq. The measure was approved on Tuesday and reflects a growing disenchantment with the US-backed government. The Sadrist-drafted resolution passed with a vote of 85 to 59.
The members of parliament voted along party lines, with Sunnis joining the bloc loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr, a Shia leader, and another Shia party at odds with the leadership. Supporters of Nuri al-Maliki, the Iraqi prime minister, opposed the resolution.
The UN mandate for foreign forces in Iraq has already been extended until December 31 at al-Maliki's request, so Tuesday's parliamentary action is not expected to have any immediate effect. However, Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, a Sunni parliament speaker, said: "If the government wants to extend the presence of the multinational forces, it has to come to us in the parliament to convince us first."
The effort mirrors the rivalry George Bush, the US president, faces with the Democratic-led congress, which has urged the administration to bring troops home.The UN Security Council voted on November 28 to extend the mandate of the multinational force, but it has also authorised a review of that mandate by June 15 or earlier if requested by the Iraqi government.
Al-Maliki has said he wants Iraqi forces to take over the country's security, but he has refused to demand a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces. George Bakus, an aide to al-Maliki, said: "I think the situation is clear ... when the Iraqi troops are ready and can control the country, the government will ask the multinational forces to leave."
Only 144 of the 275 members of the Iraqi parliament were present for the vote, but that was enough for a quorum. Adnan Dulaimi, of the Sunni Accordance Front, supported the measure, along with the Sadrists and members of the Fadhila party - which recently broke off from the Shia-led United Iraqi Alliance. Nassir al-Issawi, a Sadrist politician, said: "This was the first step in implementing our political goal which is the withdrawal of the occupation forces.''
Those opposed included Kurdish legislators and members of other mainstream Shia parties, including al-Maliki's Dawa party and the Supreme Islamic Council of Iraq. Mahmoud Othman, a Kurdish politician, objected to the resolution and said that "it is supposed that extension of the mandate of the forces should go with completing building the Iraqi forces''.
Jalaluddin al-Saghir, a Shia cleric from the Supreme Islamic Council of Iraq, said the resolution was an additional obstacle for the government. "The government was at least supposed to be consulted before such a resolution was approved,'' he said. "Those who voted for the resolution had political aims."
The members of parliament voted along party lines, with Sunnis joining the bloc loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr, a Shia leader, and another Shia party at odds with the leadership. Supporters of Nuri al-Maliki, the Iraqi prime minister, opposed the resolution.
The UN mandate for foreign forces in Iraq has already been extended until December 31 at al-Maliki's request, so Tuesday's parliamentary action is not expected to have any immediate effect. However, Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, a Sunni parliament speaker, said: "If the government wants to extend the presence of the multinational forces, it has to come to us in the parliament to convince us first."
The effort mirrors the rivalry George Bush, the US president, faces with the Democratic-led congress, which has urged the administration to bring troops home.The UN Security Council voted on November 28 to extend the mandate of the multinational force, but it has also authorised a review of that mandate by June 15 or earlier if requested by the Iraqi government.
Al-Maliki has said he wants Iraqi forces to take over the country's security, but he has refused to demand a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces. George Bakus, an aide to al-Maliki, said: "I think the situation is clear ... when the Iraqi troops are ready and can control the country, the government will ask the multinational forces to leave."
Only 144 of the 275 members of the Iraqi parliament were present for the vote, but that was enough for a quorum. Adnan Dulaimi, of the Sunni Accordance Front, supported the measure, along with the Sadrists and members of the Fadhila party - which recently broke off from the Shia-led United Iraqi Alliance. Nassir al-Issawi, a Sadrist politician, said: "This was the first step in implementing our political goal which is the withdrawal of the occupation forces.''
Those opposed included Kurdish legislators and members of other mainstream Shia parties, including al-Maliki's Dawa party and the Supreme Islamic Council of Iraq. Mahmoud Othman, a Kurdish politician, objected to the resolution and said that "it is supposed that extension of the mandate of the forces should go with completing building the Iraqi forces''.
Jalaluddin al-Saghir, a Shia cleric from the Supreme Islamic Council of Iraq, said the resolution was an additional obstacle for the government. "The government was at least supposed to be consulted before such a resolution was approved,'' he said. "Those who voted for the resolution had political aims."
Labels: Fadhela party, Iraqi Accord Front, Moqtada Al-Sadr, Nouri Al-Maliki, UN mandate, UNSC
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Al-Hashimi met with Allawi about forming a new party
Politics
(Al Mashriq Newspaper AR.) - 28 MAY - Accord Front spokesman, Salim Al Jabouri, confirmed that there will soon be a new national front. He also confirmed that a few days ago VP Tariq Al Hashimi met with former PM, Ayad Allawi, the chief of the Iraqi List. They discussed creating a new front. Al Jabouri said to an Emirate newspaper that there are continuing communications with influential groups and parties, such as Fadhila Party, National Dialogue Front, and the Kurdish Coalition.
He added that there have been meetings with these groups and parties as well. He denied that these meetings area targeted at having a coup against the current government, rather, he described it as a democratic political activity targeted to create a new national front to represent the majority of Iraqis and be away from sectarianism. This new front will have patriotic programs and will serve all Iraqis. Finally, Al Hashimi stated in Amman yesterday that he has three choices: to dialog with the current government; withdraw from the current government; or create a new front.
Labels: Fadhela party, Iraqi Accord Front, Iraqi List, Iyad Allawi, Kurdish Coalition, National Dialogue Front, Salim Al Jabouri, Tariq al-Hashimi
Friday, May 25, 2007
Iraqi military experts warn fighting will escalate in Basrah
Security
(Gulf News) - Armed fighting between the British troops and the Mehdi Army headed by Shiite cleric Moqtada Al Sadr, will escalate in Basra, Iraq's second-largest city, warned Iraqi security forces and military experts. The warning comes after London's decision to begin troop withdrawal from Iraq. Zaman Al Khuzai, a major general in the former Iraqi army, told Gulf News: "I believe Americans will shift some of their forces to Basra and other Shiite southern provinces in case the United Kingdom starts an early troop pullout from Iraq.
"Americans will keep a track of the Shiite militias, loyal to Iran, to prevent them from getting a grip on Basra and control of the situation, particularly as the government of [Prime Minister] Nouri Al Maliki is impotent and largely involved with militia infiltration in the state's institutions." He alleged: "The replacement does not amuse Al Maliki and other Shiite political and religious leaders who want to surrender the full security file to the Iraqi forces, which are accused by the British and Americans of being loyal to the dominant Shiite militias."
Sources close to Iraqi intelligence revealed that the Mehdi Army has mobilised itself and its supporters are preparing to return to Iraq immediately after an early pullout of British forces. Some do not rule out a coup attempt. Muaid Abdul Mustafa Al Dulaimi, an expert in strategic military studies, told Gulf News: "The Mehdi Army and rival Shiite militias will attempt a coup to seize control of the entire official military and security establishments in Basra and other southern Iraqi cities."
If this happens, "the [militias] will be extremely powerful and stronger than Al Maliki's government, especially as Iran will back the militias in the south more than supporting the government in Baghdad", Al Dulaimi said. It does not seem that Al Dulaimi's analysis is fully true as some reports confirm that the British withdrawal is likely to unleash a power struggle among main Shiite militia groups like the Mehdi Army and their rivals the Fadila party which engaged in clashes recently.
Some sceptics believe that the British and Americans have a role in creating the current conflict between the two Shiite groups to spark off an internal fight in the Shiite block. The security situation in Basra is growing critical and witnesses struggles for interests and power between the United States, Britain and Iran. The development may spur Americans to bring a strong central Iraqi government led by the former Baathists as its primary mission will be to suppress Shiite militias and end Iranian influence in southern Iraq.
"Americans will keep a track of the Shiite militias, loyal to Iran, to prevent them from getting a grip on Basra and control of the situation, particularly as the government of [Prime Minister] Nouri Al Maliki is impotent and largely involved with militia infiltration in the state's institutions." He alleged: "The replacement does not amuse Al Maliki and other Shiite political and religious leaders who want to surrender the full security file to the Iraqi forces, which are accused by the British and Americans of being loyal to the dominant Shiite militias."
Sources close to Iraqi intelligence revealed that the Mehdi Army has mobilised itself and its supporters are preparing to return to Iraq immediately after an early pullout of British forces. Some do not rule out a coup attempt. Muaid Abdul Mustafa Al Dulaimi, an expert in strategic military studies, told Gulf News: "The Mehdi Army and rival Shiite militias will attempt a coup to seize control of the entire official military and security establishments in Basra and other southern Iraqi cities."
If this happens, "the [militias] will be extremely powerful and stronger than Al Maliki's government, especially as Iran will back the militias in the south more than supporting the government in Baghdad", Al Dulaimi said. It does not seem that Al Dulaimi's analysis is fully true as some reports confirm that the British withdrawal is likely to unleash a power struggle among main Shiite militia groups like the Mehdi Army and their rivals the Fadila party which engaged in clashes recently.
Some sceptics believe that the British and Americans have a role in creating the current conflict between the two Shiite groups to spark off an internal fight in the Shiite block. The security situation in Basra is growing critical and witnesses struggles for interests and power between the United States, Britain and Iran. The development may spur Americans to bring a strong central Iraqi government led by the former Baathists as its primary mission will be to suppress Shiite militias and end Iranian influence in southern Iraq.
Labels: Basra, coup attempt, Fadhela party, Mahdi Army, Shiite militias, Zaman Al Khuzai
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Allawi Guarantees Arab And Regional Support For Coup Against Al Maliki
Politics
(Al Mada Newspaper) - 22 MAY - During a meeting of the Iraqi List in Jordan between the 17th and 19th of May, which was headed by Ayad Allawi and that was attended by Adnan Al Pachachi, Mahdi Al Hafidh, Ayad Jamal Al Din, Falah Al Naqib, Maysoun Al Damlouji, and others, Allawi demanded that his list’s members make the decision to withdraw from Al Maliki’s government promising them that there will be large regional support in many sectors.
Allawi adopted this position because of the political crisis in Iraq as well as because of the dominating political entity’s continuing of its sectarian agenda and its insistence to marginalize other entities from participating in the political process. Participants said that the meeting was devoted to discussing the political situation in Iraq which needs extraordinary steps. Sources said that Allawi confirmed that his political activities are supported by some Arab and regional countries, such as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Libya, Egypt, Turkey, Yemen, and Syria.
The meeting also discussed the formation of a new political front to face the Iraqi situation and the inclusion of the National Dialogue Front in this new front as well as the inclusion of Khalaf Al Aliyan’s political entity. Information also states that there is an understanding with some members from Fadhila Party, the Sadr Movement, the Islamic Party, as well as some Kurds, “such as Arshad Zebari, who is well known as being one of Saddam’s mules.”
The meeting was also attended by the former Deputy PM, Abid Mutlak Al Jabouri. Leaders from the Iraqi List said that the meeting and side discussions were focused on mobilizing efforts to be utilized to dissolve the current political coalitions. Political sources in Amman expressed Allawi’s lack of confidence in the seriousness of the Islamic Party to take important steps toward this new political front. They also mentioned that Allawi is unsure of the Sadr Movement’s intentions regarding this new front.
The meeting also discussed the formation of a new political front to face the Iraqi situation and the inclusion of the National Dialogue Front in this new front as well as the inclusion of Khalaf Al Aliyan’s political entity. Information also states that there is an understanding with some members from Fadhila Party, the Sadr Movement, the Islamic Party, as well as some Kurds, “such as Arshad Zebari, who is well known as being one of Saddam’s mules.”
The meeting was also attended by the former Deputy PM, Abid Mutlak Al Jabouri. Leaders from the Iraqi List said that the meeting and side discussions were focused on mobilizing efforts to be utilized to dissolve the current political coalitions. Political sources in Amman expressed Allawi’s lack of confidence in the seriousness of the Islamic Party to take important steps toward this new political front. They also mentioned that Allawi is unsure of the Sadr Movement’s intentions regarding this new front.
These points were confirmed by Dr. Ali Al Adib, a Shiite Alliance member, when he said that the discussions between Allawi and the Sadr Movement were unsuccessful. These sources also said that there were two points of view during the Amman meeting. The first was Allawi’s point of view that was focusing on withdrawing from Al Maliki’s government in the next week. The second view of Al Pachachi was that the withdrawal from the government must be parallel with the announcement of the new political front.
Some participants, who have good relations with some Arab countries, believe that for support to continue from the Gulf countries, they must withdraw and announce the new front. The same participants confirmed that there is security and political coordination among these countries to develop assistance for Allawi’s plan.
Some observers say that the Iraqi List’s leadership is searching for any position in the government regardless of the higher national interest for Iraq.
Other observers, who are outside the government, believe that what is developing is intended to destroy the current political infrastructure in Iraq which confirms that if the current government wants to face this coup, it must take certain steps regarding the economic, political and security situations. The current government must also minimize sectarianism. These observers add that the government should also look toward open and secret dialogue with those in and outside of Iraq.
Some Iraq List members said that this political development is related to Cheney’s failure in convincing the Arab countries to support the political process in Iraq. Regarding Fadhila Party, some sources are saying that there has been a dialogue between it and Alllawi’s list. Meanwhile, Al Adib said that Fadhila Party is reconsidering its position regarding the Shiite Alliance and it will likely return to the Alliance in the next few days.
Some participants, who have good relations with some Arab countries, believe that for support to continue from the Gulf countries, they must withdraw and announce the new front. The same participants confirmed that there is security and political coordination among these countries to develop assistance for Allawi’s plan.
Some observers say that the Iraqi List’s leadership is searching for any position in the government regardless of the higher national interest for Iraq.
Other observers, who are outside the government, believe that what is developing is intended to destroy the current political infrastructure in Iraq which confirms that if the current government wants to face this coup, it must take certain steps regarding the economic, political and security situations. The current government must also minimize sectarianism. These observers add that the government should also look toward open and secret dialogue with those in and outside of Iraq.
Some Iraq List members said that this political development is related to Cheney’s failure in convincing the Arab countries to support the political process in Iraq. Regarding Fadhila Party, some sources are saying that there has been a dialogue between it and Alllawi’s list. Meanwhile, Al Adib said that Fadhila Party is reconsidering its position regarding the Shiite Alliance and it will likely return to the Alliance in the next few days.
Labels: coup, Fadhela party, Iraqi List, Iyad Allawi
Friday, May 18, 2007
Fadila party leader intervenes in Nasiriyah clashes
Security
(Voices of Iraq) - Eleven were killed and seventy others wounded in the clashes that flared up between police forces and fighters loyal to Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr in al-Nassiriyah city, a medical source from Thi-Qar province said on Thursday. Eyewitnesses affirmed that calm had prevailed in the city today after the clashes were over and the regular rhythm of life had returned to the government's departments.
"The final death toll from the clashes is 11 dead, including six policemen, and seventy wounded," Dr. Hadi Badr al-Riyahi, director of Thi-Qar Health Department, told the independent news agency Voices of Iraq (VOI). Fierce clashes broke out on early Wednesday between elements of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sard's al-Mahdi army and police forces in different parts of the southern Iraqi city of Nassiriyah.
Media spokesman for the Thi-Qar police department Radi Abul Heel denied, in statements to (VOI), the killing of chief of the anti-riot forces, Jawad Abdil Kadhem. The man was wounded and is being treated, he said. The clashes flared up after the arrest of one of al-Mahdi army's elements in al-Shatra district in northern Thi-Qar, who was believed to have been involved in attacks against the Multi-National Forces in the province," a security source, who asked not to be named, told (VOI) on Wednesday.
"Armed groups from al-Mahdi army attacked the house of the police chief who was believed to be responsible for arresting the man and the matter flared the clashes," the source also said. Clerics, tribal chiefs and political figures in the Shiite city initiated efforts to contain the crisis, the head of the Shiite Fadhila (Virtue) party in Nassiriyah said yesterday.
"The crisis between Mahdi army fighters and police forces has been contained as Shiite cleric Ayatollah al-Yaqubi intervened in person to settle the dispute," Numan Amber Hwirif, head of Fadhila party in Nassiriyah, told (VOI). Ayatollah al-Yaqubi is the spiritual leader of the Fadhila party.
Hwirif added, "a truce was worked out and it provided that the police forces are the only body responsible for security in the city, in return for police withdraw from the Sadr's office in Nassiriyah. The truce also agreed to end all armed appearances in the city and that no armed militiamen should be out in the city streets," head of Nassiriyah Fadhila party said. Nassiriyah, capital city of Thi-Qar province, is 420 km south of Baghdad.
"The final death toll from the clashes is 11 dead, including six policemen, and seventy wounded," Dr. Hadi Badr al-Riyahi, director of Thi-Qar Health Department, told the independent news agency Voices of Iraq (VOI). Fierce clashes broke out on early Wednesday between elements of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sard's al-Mahdi army and police forces in different parts of the southern Iraqi city of Nassiriyah.
Media spokesman for the Thi-Qar police department Radi Abul Heel denied, in statements to (VOI), the killing of chief of the anti-riot forces, Jawad Abdil Kadhem. The man was wounded and is being treated, he said. The clashes flared up after the arrest of one of al-Mahdi army's elements in al-Shatra district in northern Thi-Qar, who was believed to have been involved in attacks against the Multi-National Forces in the province," a security source, who asked not to be named, told (VOI) on Wednesday.
"Armed groups from al-Mahdi army attacked the house of the police chief who was believed to be responsible for arresting the man and the matter flared the clashes," the source also said. Clerics, tribal chiefs and political figures in the Shiite city initiated efforts to contain the crisis, the head of the Shiite Fadhila (Virtue) party in Nassiriyah said yesterday.
"The crisis between Mahdi army fighters and police forces has been contained as Shiite cleric Ayatollah al-Yaqubi intervened in person to settle the dispute," Numan Amber Hwirif, head of Fadhila party in Nassiriyah, told (VOI). Ayatollah al-Yaqubi is the spiritual leader of the Fadhila party.
Hwirif added, "a truce was worked out and it provided that the police forces are the only body responsible for security in the city, in return for police withdraw from the Sadr's office in Nassiriyah. The truce also agreed to end all armed appearances in the city and that no armed militiamen should be out in the city streets," head of Nassiriyah Fadhila party said. Nassiriyah, capital city of Thi-Qar province, is 420 km south of Baghdad.
Labels: Ayatollah al-Yaqubi, clashes, Fadhela party, Mahdi Army, Nasiriyah
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Vice Presidents Tariq Al Hashimi and Adil Abd Al Mahdi meet
Politics
(Al Mada Newspaper) - 14 MAY - Yesterday, Vice Presidents Tariq Al Hashimi and Adil Abd Al Mahdi met; also attending this meeting was Iraq’s Ambassador to Russia; during their meeting the men discussed: Iraq’s foreign affairs, the current political situation, and the continuing efforts to remove “obstacles” between the (various Iraqi) political “blocs” in order to foster a better political environment.
The President (Talabani’s) Media Office released the following statement:
· Iraq’s two Vice Presidents discussed: DeBaathification, and (they resolved their differences regarding) a number of disagreements.
· Yesterday afternoon, Al Hashimi met with Sayid Amr Al Hakim, the Secretary General of the Al Muharab Martyr’s Organization. They discussed the results of SCIRI’s (a powerful Shiite group’s) ninth annual conference.
· Vice President (Al Hashimi) believes that SCIRI provides the true reflection of Iraq’s current political situation; and, he confirmed the need to unify (bring together) all of Iraq’s “patriotic” (national unity) efforts… in order to solve Iraq’s crises.
· Al Hashimi also met with a Fadhila Party (another Shiite party, which sometimes differs with SCIRI and the Shiite Alliance List) delegation led by Dr. Hassan Al Shimari. They discussed the recent activities in Basrah (demonstrations, clashes, calls to remove the Governor) …and legal ways to resolve these issues. They also discussed a number of political and economic issues.
The President (Talabani’s) Media Office released the following statement:
· Iraq’s two Vice Presidents discussed: DeBaathification, and (they resolved their differences regarding) a number of disagreements.
· Yesterday afternoon, Al Hashimi met with Sayid Amr Al Hakim, the Secretary General of the Al Muharab Martyr’s Organization. They discussed the results of SCIRI’s (a powerful Shiite group’s) ninth annual conference.
· Vice President (Al Hashimi) believes that SCIRI provides the true reflection of Iraq’s current political situation; and, he confirmed the need to unify (bring together) all of Iraq’s “patriotic” (national unity) efforts… in order to solve Iraq’s crises.
· Al Hashimi also met with a Fadhila Party (another Shiite party, which sometimes differs with SCIRI and the Shiite Alliance List) delegation led by Dr. Hassan Al Shimari. They discussed the recent activities in Basrah (demonstrations, clashes, calls to remove the Governor) …and legal ways to resolve these issues. They also discussed a number of political and economic issues.
Labels: Adil Abdul Mahdi, Fadhela party, Sayid Amr Al Hakim, SCIRI, Tariq al-Hashimi
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Battle for Basrah
Security
(Reuters) - Basra, the richest city in Iraq and gateway to the Gulf, could erupt into all-out war between rival Shi'ite groups seeking control of its vast oil wealth as British forces prepare to draw down. The power struggle between factions of the Shi'ite majority that has dominated Iraqi politics since the first post-war general elections in 2005 threatens to affect oil exports accounting for virtually all of Iraq's income.
In the latest development of a turf war that has all the ingredients of a gangster movie set in 1920s Chicago, rivals of the provincial governor fell one vote short of voting him out of office last month but have pledged to keep up the standoff. Basra, Iraq's second largest city, is more or less free of the car bombs and the violence between Shi'ites and Sunni Arabs raging in central Iraq, but it has descended into a chaos of its own. Sporadic militia battles, endemic corruption and death threats now scar the once tranquil port.
"Everyone's trying to grab resources and make a quick profit without considering a long-term programme or attempting to establish a power base for the future," said Peter Harling, an analyst for the International Crisis Group who focuses on Iraq. "The interesting thing about violence in Basra is that it's not related to the two big factors of violence elsewhere: fighting the occupation and sectarian violence," he said.
Residents fear that violence could be a sign of things to come, especially as British troops disengage from the south. Britain, which has already turned over three southern provinces to Iraqi control, is poised to reduce its 7,000-strong force in Basra to about 5,500 by the beginning of June.
In the latest development of a turf war that has all the ingredients of a gangster movie set in 1920s Chicago, rivals of the provincial governor fell one vote short of voting him out of office last month but have pledged to keep up the standoff. Basra, Iraq's second largest city, is more or less free of the car bombs and the violence between Shi'ites and Sunni Arabs raging in central Iraq, but it has descended into a chaos of its own. Sporadic militia battles, endemic corruption and death threats now scar the once tranquil port.
"Everyone's trying to grab resources and make a quick profit without considering a long-term programme or attempting to establish a power base for the future," said Peter Harling, an analyst for the International Crisis Group who focuses on Iraq. "The interesting thing about violence in Basra is that it's not related to the two big factors of violence elsewhere: fighting the occupation and sectarian violence," he said.
Residents fear that violence could be a sign of things to come, especially as British troops disengage from the south. Britain, which has already turned over three southern provinces to Iraqi control, is poised to reduce its 7,000-strong force in Basra to about 5,500 by the beginning of June.
The power struggle involves militias and politicians loyal to young Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, the Fadhila party and the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council (SIIC). Locally powerful Fadhila, which controls key oil industry jobs in Basra, opposes the creation of a Shi'ite "super-region" espoused by SIIC, the dominant Shi'ite faction in Iraq.
Basra Governor Mohammed al-Waeli, from Fadhila, wants a Basra region of its own, independent from Najaf to the north, seat of the Shi'ite political establishment but bereft of oil. "Federalism is a large factor behind the dispute," said one Fadhila official who declined to be identified. Waeli could not be reached for an interview despite several requests by Reuters.
One of Waeli's main opponents, former governor Hasan al-Rashid from SIIC's Badr Organization, said his allies had received death threats warning them against deposing Waeli. "There are several points why we are opposed to him, including Basra's worsening security and his constant absence from the provincial council," Rashid told Reuters.
Some in Basra are worried that a British withdrawal would encourage groups to use force to control the oil fields. With sabotage halting exports in northern fields, the Basra terminal is essentially Iraq's only source of income at present. Attacks by suspected militants against British forces are on the rise -- April was the deadliest month for British troops since the first month of the war -- but a spokeswoman for the British consulate in Basra played down fears of political warfare after the planned reduction in British forces.
Basra Governor Mohammed al-Waeli, from Fadhila, wants a Basra region of its own, independent from Najaf to the north, seat of the Shi'ite political establishment but bereft of oil. "Federalism is a large factor behind the dispute," said one Fadhila official who declined to be identified. Waeli could not be reached for an interview despite several requests by Reuters.
One of Waeli's main opponents, former governor Hasan al-Rashid from SIIC's Badr Organization, said his allies had received death threats warning them against deposing Waeli. "There are several points why we are opposed to him, including Basra's worsening security and his constant absence from the provincial council," Rashid told Reuters.
Some in Basra are worried that a British withdrawal would encourage groups to use force to control the oil fields. With sabotage halting exports in northern fields, the Basra terminal is essentially Iraq's only source of income at present. Attacks by suspected militants against British forces are on the rise -- April was the deadliest month for British troops since the first month of the war -- but a spokeswoman for the British consulate in Basra played down fears of political warfare after the planned reduction in British forces.
COMMENT: The 'word on the street' is that the recent clashes in Basrah actually have nothing to do with serving the people. The actual reason for this fighting is: oil smuggling revenue; reconstruction contracts; and Iranian influence. COMMENT ENDS.
Labels: Basra, Fadhela party, militias, Mohammed al-Waeli, Moqtada Al-Sadr, politics, SIIC, Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, violence
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Fears of Iranian-influenced outbreak of violence in Basra
Security
(Stratfor) - Iranian influence in Basra, Iraq, is spreading fears of an outbreak of armed conflict between parties in the city, Saudi news Web site Elaph reported May 11. Bassam Sharif, deputy head of the parliamentary coalition of the Fadhila party, confirmed the existence of groups trying to destabilize the situation in Basra by smuggling in weapons.
Labels: Basra, Bassam Sharif, Elaph, Fadhela party, Iran
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Fadila party presents suggestions to tackle political and security deterioration
Politics
(Voices of Iraq) - The Shiite Fadila (Virtue) party presented on Wednesday proposals and suggestions to tackle political and security deterioration in Iraq. "We should tackle congestion between political parties as it is a main reason for the deteriorating political and security condition in Iraq," lawmaker Hassan al-Shemri, of the Fadila party, said in a press conference today in Baghdad.
Al-Shemri said, "The party has worked out a number of suggestions to ease the political congestion." The Fadila party, holding 15 seats out of the 275-member-parliament, was a component of the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition, the largest bloc in parliament with 128 seats, but the party withdrew from the Shiite bloc, seeking alliances away from sectarian ties.
The legislator also added, "the proposals focused on committing to the pledge document, which was signed in Mecca last year between Sunni and Shiite clerics and politicians, which commits everyone to shun sectarianism and stop the bloodbath."
The legislator, who noted that the prime minister had to be firm and to rely only on efficiency when selecting ministers, said "the suggestions also include giving an active role to constructive opposition, as part of the political process, by holding a conference where it can meet in an Arab country, and by involving it in the political process by nominating 13 additional lawmakers to the parliament so their number will reach 288 instead of the present 257." Fadila also suggested that parliamentary elections be held every two years, at least for the upcoming days, instead of the current four year term.
Al-Shemri said, "The party has worked out a number of suggestions to ease the political congestion." The Fadila party, holding 15 seats out of the 275-member-parliament, was a component of the Shiite Unified Iraqi Coalition, the largest bloc in parliament with 128 seats, but the party withdrew from the Shiite bloc, seeking alliances away from sectarian ties.
The legislator also added, "the proposals focused on committing to the pledge document, which was signed in Mecca last year between Sunni and Shiite clerics and politicians, which commits everyone to shun sectarianism and stop the bloodbath."
The legislator, who noted that the prime minister had to be firm and to rely only on efficiency when selecting ministers, said "the suggestions also include giving an active role to constructive opposition, as part of the political process, by holding a conference where it can meet in an Arab country, and by involving it in the political process by nominating 13 additional lawmakers to the parliament so their number will reach 288 instead of the present 257." Fadila also suggested that parliamentary elections be held every two years, at least for the upcoming days, instead of the current four year term.
Labels: Fadhela party, Hassan al-Shemri
Monday, April 30, 2007
Basra miltias prepare to battle for power
Security
(Azzaman) - Rival factions in the southern city of Basra have mobilized their armed militias for what many residents expect to be a ferocious fight over control of the provincial council. Residents are hoarding essentials with sporadic clashes between the factions intensifying in the past three days in which various weapons were used.
As armed groups fortify positions in major streets and amid heavily populated areas the occupying British troops charged with security have so far shown little concern. The government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has not move a finger to contain the spiral of violence in the city which could easily spread to other areas.
The Basra Islamic Front, an umbrella for five Islamist groups, is reported to have deployed nearly 7,000 armed men in the city in a bid to force current governor Mohammed al-Waili to quit. Waili belongs to the rival Fadhila faction whose armed men are guarding the governor’s headquarters in the city and vowing to fight off the attackers.
Basra is the capital of the predominantly Muslim Shiite province of the same name. There are fears that the growing tension may adversely affect the country’s oil output. Basra oil fields are crucial to the country’s exports with output form the northern oil fields of Kirkuk shrinking. The Fadhila party of governor Waili is reported to be in control of Iraq’s Southern Oil Company which administers the province’s oil output. Fadhila supporters hold key positions in the industry and analysts say the current feud is more over control of oil than the provincial council.
As armed groups fortify positions in major streets and amid heavily populated areas the occupying British troops charged with security have so far shown little concern. The government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has not move a finger to contain the spiral of violence in the city which could easily spread to other areas.
The Basra Islamic Front, an umbrella for five Islamist groups, is reported to have deployed nearly 7,000 armed men in the city in a bid to force current governor Mohammed al-Waili to quit. Waili belongs to the rival Fadhila faction whose armed men are guarding the governor’s headquarters in the city and vowing to fight off the attackers.
Basra is the capital of the predominantly Muslim Shiite province of the same name. There are fears that the growing tension may adversely affect the country’s oil output. Basra oil fields are crucial to the country’s exports with output form the northern oil fields of Kirkuk shrinking. The Fadhila party of governor Waili is reported to be in control of Iraq’s Southern Oil Company which administers the province’s oil output. Fadhila supporters hold key positions in the industry and analysts say the current feud is more over control of oil than the provincial council.
Labels: Basra, Basra Islamic Front, Fadhela party, militias, Mohammed al-Waili, oil, provincial counsil, Southern Oil Company
Monday, April 23, 2007
Hundreds of Fadhila supporters demonstrate against Sadrists
Security, Politics
(International Herald Tribune) - For the second time this week, a demonstration was held in southern Iraq on Saturday underlying the fierce rivalry between two Shiite groups vying for influence as Britain prepares to reduce its forces in the region. Hundreds of supporters of the Shiite Fadhila party gathered in the southern city of Nasiriyah to protest a demonstration that 3,000 Iraqis believed to be followers of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr had held earlier this week in Basra to demand the resignation of its provincial governor because of poor city services and alleged corruption in that southern city, Iraq's second largest.
Fighters allied with al-Sadr's Mahdi Army and the Fadhila party often clash with one another in mostly Shiite southern Iraq, and last month a dozen people were wounded in such fighting. Saturday's Fadhila protesters issued a statement defending Basra Gov. Mohammed al-Waili, a Fadhila member, and warning his opponents to back down. "We will hold demonstrations, sit-ins and confrontations, if needed," the statement said.
Al-Waili has said he fears that demonstrators plan to storm his office and kill him, then take control of government banks and a state-run oil company in the oil-rich Basra region. On Tuesday, Iran's ambassador to Iraq, Shiite Hassan Kazemi Qomi, went to the holy Shiite city of Najaf in southern Iraq and met with Grand Ayatollah Mohammed al-Yaqoubi, the spiritual leader of the Fadhila party, in an apparent effort to reduce tensions in the Basra area.
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and Parliament speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani also have urged Shiite religious and political leaders in southern Iraq to ban demonstrations in an effort to keep the area calm as it passes through a difficult period of transition.
Fighters allied with al-Sadr's Mahdi Army and the Fadhila party often clash with one another in mostly Shiite southern Iraq, and last month a dozen people were wounded in such fighting. Saturday's Fadhila protesters issued a statement defending Basra Gov. Mohammed al-Waili, a Fadhila member, and warning his opponents to back down. "We will hold demonstrations, sit-ins and confrontations, if needed," the statement said.
Al-Waili has said he fears that demonstrators plan to storm his office and kill him, then take control of government banks and a state-run oil company in the oil-rich Basra region. On Tuesday, Iran's ambassador to Iraq, Shiite Hassan Kazemi Qomi, went to the holy Shiite city of Najaf in southern Iraq and met with Grand Ayatollah Mohammed al-Yaqoubi, the spiritual leader of the Fadhila party, in an apparent effort to reduce tensions in the Basra area.
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and Parliament speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani also have urged Shiite religious and political leaders in southern Iraq to ban demonstrations in an effort to keep the area calm as it passes through a difficult period of transition.
Labels: Fadhela party, Grand Ayatollah Mohammed al-Yaqoubi, Hassan Kazemi Qomi, Mahdi Army, Mohammed al-Waili, Moqtada Al-Sadr, Najaf, Nasiriyah
