Iraqi Sunni cleric calls on Anbar protesters to stand firm

BAGHDAD, Asharq Al-Awsat— Leading Iraqi Sunni cleric, Abdul Malik Al-Saadi, has accused some parties of putting pressure on the demonstrators to return to their homes before prospective negotiations with the government begins. In a public statement, Saadi said: “Some governors and directors of religious endowments, especially in Al-Anbar—using my initiative to form a committee for dialogue with the government as an excuse—are putting pressure on the preachers and protesters to end...

Read more »

At Least 20 Killed in Iraq Bombings

LONDON, Asharq Al-Awsat—At least 20 people were killed and over 100 wounded on Monday, April 15 in a series of car bombings targeting mainly Shi'a areas across Iraq. With the provincial elections due to take place on April 20, there is great concern that such violent attacks could influence the outcome of the elections. The elections are being closely watched as they are considered a test of political stability after the end of US involvement in the country. Fear of further attacks migh...

Read more »