Iraqi voters may get last say on U.S. deal
Political fighting delays decision on security pact

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: November 27, 2008

BAGHDAD — Intense dealmaking among Iraq’s political factions on Wednesday delayed by one day a parliamentary vote on a security pact that would allow American forces to stay in the country through 2011 under tight Iraqi supervision.

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The proposed deal meets an Iraqi demand for a clear timetable for the exit of about 150,000 American troops. But the Shiite-led government was struggling to meet the demands of political blocs, including Sunni Arab lawmakers, seeking concessions in return for supporting the pact.

Parliament Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani said political leaders were working toward a settlement that will clear the way for a rescheduled vote this morning.

Shiite lawmaker Ridha Jawad Taqi said the government’s Shiite and Kurdish blocs were willing to hold a national referendum on the deal in 2009.

If that happens, the security pact could be approved by parliament, but torpedoed by a "no” vote in the referendum.


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Related Topics: Culture and Lifestyle, Politics, Religion, U.S. Armed Forces Activities, World Politics, Elections and Voting, U.S. Army Activities, Referenda, Islam, Iraqi Politics, Sunni Islam


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