Why it matters:
The vote is framed as a rejection of foreign occupation and influence.
The major political groups see the elections as a chance to consolidate power and push back against Washington’s agenda in Baghdad.
Driving the news:
The second and final phase of Iraq's parliamentary elections began at 8 a.m. today.
More than 21 million Iraqis are eligible to vote.
In the sixth parliamentary election, 7,744 candidates from 31 electoral coalitions are competing, and ultimately, 329 representatives will be elected to shape the country's political future for the next four years.
The big picture:
U.S. military presence and political pressure remain deeply unpopular among large segments of Iraqi society.
Political groups argue that the elections can strengthen Iraq’s independence and deepen ties with regional allies opposed to American hegemony.
What they’re saying:
Commentators in regional outlets emphasize that the ballot box is a weapon against “external dictates.”
They highlight that Iraq’s future stability depends on ending reliance on U.S. support and embracing indigenous and regional solutions.
Iraqi politician Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the National Wisdom Movement, delivered a speech at the launch of his election campaign, calling for national unity, moderation, and resistance to foreign interference. His remarks come as the United States intensifies efforts to disarm the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) following recent developments in Lebanon and Syria.
Go deeper:
Al-Hakim Warns Foreign Powers to Keep Hands Off Iraq
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
