What's happened
Iraq held parliamentary elections on November 11, 2025, with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani seeking a second term amid low voter turnout and a boycott by the Sadrist Movement. The vote is set against a backdrop of Iran-US rivalry, militia influence, and public frustration over corruption and poor services. No party is expected to win a majority, leading to complex coalition talks.
What's behind the headline?
Sectarian Politics and Electoral Dynamics
Iraq's 2025 parliamentary election underscores the entrenched sectarian power-sharing system that continues to shape governance. Despite the presence of thousands of candidates, including reformist youth, the political landscape remains dominated by established Shi'ite, Sunni, and Kurdish blocs, many aligned with armed militias.
The Role of Militias and External Influence
Iran-backed militias, such as Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq led by Qais al-Khazali, maintain significant political and military influence, blurring lines between state and non-state actors. Their participation in elections via political wings consolidates Iran's sway in Iraq, complicating efforts by Prime Minister Sudani and the US to disarm these groups.
Voter Disillusionment and Low Turnout
Record low voter registration and turnout, exacerbated by the Sadrist Movement's boycott, reflect widespread public disillusionment with a system perceived as corrupt and unresponsive. This apathy threatens the legitimacy of the electoral process and the government's mandate.
Sudani's Balancing Act
Sudani's campaign focuses on improving infrastructure and public services, leveraging oil revenues to hire public sector workers and complete stalled projects. However, his reliance on Iran-aligned factions for political support limits his reform capacity and raises concerns about empowering hardline groups.
Regional and International Implications
The election outcome will influence Iraq's delicate balancing act between US and Iranian interests amid fears of regional escalation linked to the Gaza conflict. Washington's warnings against militia interference in US operations highlight the geopolitical stakes.
Forecast
No single party will secure a majority, ensuring protracted coalition negotiations. The persistence of sectarian patronage and militia influence suggests limited immediate reform. However, Sudani's emphasis on service delivery may marginally improve public sentiment if sustained. The election will not resolve Iraq's structural challenges but will shape the country's trajectory amid regional tensions.
What the papers say
Ahmed Rasheed of Reuters highlights the expected fragmentation of parliament, noting that "Sudani's bloc is forecast to win the most seats but fall short of a majority," emphasizing the likelihood of prolonged coalition talks. The New Arab and Arab News provide detailed context on the election's timing, the boycott by Muqtada al-Sadr's Sadrist Movement, and the participation of Iran-backed militias like Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, led by Qais al-Khazali. They note the low voter registration, with only 21.4 million of 32 million eligible voters registered, and the absence of polling stations abroad.
Reuters and The New Arab also explore Sudani's political positioning, portraying him as a pragmatic leader seeking to balance relations with Tehran and Washington while focusing on infrastructure and public sector employment. However, critics warn that his government has empowered hardline factions, with some accusing it of limiting freedom of expression.
The New Arab and Reuters provide background on Khazali's militia, Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, detailing its violent past and political ambitions, underscoring the challenges of integrating militias into formal politics.
Together, these sources paint a picture of an election marked by entrenched sectarianism, militia influence, voter apathy, and geopolitical tension, with Sudani as a central figure navigating these complexities.
How we got here
Since the 2003 US-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein, Iraq has operated under a sectarian power-sharing system dividing key posts among Shi'ites, Sunnis, and Kurds. Elections have been marked by low turnout and dominance of Iran-backed militias and political parties. Prime Minister Sudani, in power since 2022, faces pressure to disarm militias and improve public services amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.
Go deeper
- What impact will the Sadrist Movement's boycott have on the election?
- How do Iran-backed militias influence Iraqi politics?
- What are Prime Minister Sudani's main campaign promises?
Common question
-
What Does the Attack on Safaa al-Mashhadani Mean for Iraq’s Elections?
The assassination of Safaa al-Mashhadani, a prominent Iraqi politician, marks a dangerous escalation in election-related violence. As Iraq prepares for its upcoming elections, concerns grow about security threats targeting candidates and voters alike. Below, we explore what this attack signifies for Iraq’s political stability and the electoral process, and answer common questions about the ongoing violence and its implications.
-
What’s behind the rising violence in Iraq and its impact on elections?
Recent violence in Iraq has raised serious concerns about the safety of political candidates and the stability of upcoming elections. With targeted attacks like the killing of Safaa al-Mashhadani, questions are mounting about what’s fueling this surge in violence and how it might influence Iraq’s political future. Below, we explore the key issues, including who is being targeted, how security concerns are evolving, and what this means for Iraq’s democracy.
-
Why Are Iraq's Elections Happening Amid Violence?
Iraq's upcoming elections are taking place in a highly unstable environment marked by violence, political boycotts, and external influence. Many wonder why elections are still proceeding despite these challenges and what it means for Iraq's future. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this complex situation, including the role of militias, political groups, and external actors like Iran.
-
What Are the Main Conflicts Happening Right Now?
Today’s news is filled with significant conflicts and political tensions across the globe. From violence in Iraq to Russia's military actions in Ukraine, understanding these crises helps us grasp their impact on world stability. Below, we explore the key conflicts shaping our world today and what they mean for the future.
-
Why is Iraq's upcoming election so tense and violent?
Iraq's upcoming parliamentary elections are marked by increasing violence, political boycotts, and external influence. The assassination of a Sunni candidate, the boycott by the Sadrist Movement, and the involvement of Iran-backed militias have all contributed to a highly tense environment. Many wonder what factors are fueling this unrest and what it means for Iraq's future. Below, we explore the key issues, players, and events shaping this critical election.
-
Why Is Iraq's Election Causing Violence and Tensions?
Iraq's upcoming parliamentary elections are marked by rising violence and political unrest. The assassination of candidates, the boycott by major factions, and foreign influence are fueling a tense environment. Many wonder what’s behind this turmoil and what it means for Iraq’s future. Below, we explore the key questions about Iraq’s election crisis and its regional impact.
-
What Are the Latest Global Security and Border Disputes?
Recent developments around the world highlight ongoing conflicts and tensions at borders, from political violence in Iraq to hybrid attacks in Europe. Curious about the current state of international security? Here are the key questions and answers to help you understand today's most pressing border and security issues.
-
What’s Happening with Iraq’s Upcoming Elections?
As Iraq prepares for its parliamentary elections on November 11, political tensions are running high. Violence, including the assassination of a Sunni candidate, and external influences from Iran-backed militias are shaping the political landscape. Many wonder what these developments mean for Iraq’s future stability and democracy. Below, we answer key questions about the current situation and what to expect in the coming weeks.
-
What’s Happening with Iraq’s Upcoming Elections?
As Iraq prepares for its crucial November 11 parliamentary elections, tensions are running high. Political violence, boycotts by major factions, and external influences are shaping the electoral landscape. Many are asking: what’s driving these tensions, and what could the election outcome mean for Iraq and the region? Below, we answer some of the most common questions about Iraq’s current political crisis and upcoming vote.
-
What Are the Main Causes of Rising Global Instability?
Global instability is increasingly making headlines, driven by regional conflicts, political violence, and shifting alliances. Understanding the root causes behind these crises can help us grasp what’s happening worldwide and what to watch for next. Below, we explore key questions about the factors fueling this instability and what it means for the future.
-
What Are the Key Risks in Africa and the Middle East Right Now?
The regions of Africa and the Middle East are currently facing a complex mix of political, security, and economic challenges. From rising tensions ahead of elections to insurgencies and external influences, understanding these risks is crucial for anyone interested in regional stability and global security. Below, we explore the main issues shaping these areas today and answer common questions about their impact and future outlook.
-
What Do Recent US Election Shifts Mean for 2026?
Recent developments in US elections, including key victories and redistricting changes, are shaping the political landscape for 2026. From California's strategic redistricting wins to the internal struggles within the Democratic Party, these shifts raise important questions about future control of Congress and the direction of American politics. Here, we explore what these changes could mean for voters, candidates, and the balance of power in the coming years.
-
What Do Iraq's Upcoming Elections Mean for Regional Stability?
Iraq's parliamentary elections are a pivotal moment for the country's future and the wider Middle East. With political tensions, militia pressures, and international influences at play, many are asking what these elections could mean for stability in the region. Below, we explore the key issues, regional impacts, and why some parties are boycotting the vote.
-
What’s Really Going On With Iraq’s Elections and Political Tensions?
Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections are stirring up a lot of questions. With major factions boycotting, external pressures from the US and Iran, and concerns over low voter turnout, it’s a complex political landscape. People want to know what’s driving the unrest, what it means for Iraq’s future, and how international influences are shaping the vote. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about this pivotal election and what it could mean for Iraq’s stability.
More on these topics
-
Iraq, officially the Republic of Iraq, is a country in Western Asia, bordered by Turkey to the north, Iran to the east, Kuwait to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, Jordan to the southwest and Syria to the west.
-
Muqtada al-Sadr is an Iraqi Shia Scholar, politician and militia leader. He is the leader of the Sadrist Movement and the leader of the Peace Companies, a Shia militia that is a reformation of the previous militia he led during the American military prese
-
Nouri Kamil Muhammad-Hasan al-Maliki, also known as Jawad al-Maliki or Abu Esraa, is secretary-general of the Islamic Dawa Party and was the prime minister of Iraq from 2006 to 2014 and the vice president of Iraq from 2014 to 2015 and 2016 to 2018.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a
-
The Israel Defense Forces, commonly known in Israel by the Hebrew acronym Tzahal, are the military forces of the State of Israel. They consist of the ground forces, air force, and navy. It is the sole military wing of the Israeli security forces, and has
-
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
-
Haider Jawad Kadhim al-Abadi (Arabic: حيدر جواد كاظم العبادي; born 25 April 1952) is an Iraqi politician who was Prime Minister of Iraq from September 2014 until October 2018. Previously he served as Minister of Communication from 2003
-
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
-
Baghdad is the capital of Iraq and the third-largest city in the Arab world after Cairo and Riyadh. Located along the Tigris River, the city was founded in the 8th century, and became the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate.
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Sadr City, formerly known as Al-Thawra and Saddam City, is a suburb district of the city of Baghdad, Iraq. It was built in 1959 by Prime Minister Abdul Karim Qassim and later unofficially renamed Sadr City after Ayatollah Mohammad Mohammad Sadeq al-Sadr.