Iraq launched early voting Sunday as security forces and displaced citizens cast ballots ahead of Tuesday’s parliamentary election. About 1.3 million army and security personnel and 26,000 displaced people are eligible. The vote will determine whether Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani secures a second term amid rising tensions with Israel and Iran. A total of 7,744 candidates compete, mostly from sectarian-aligned parties, testing Iraq’s political balance between Tehran and Washington.
Yazidis Navigate Voting from Camps
Displaced Yazidis cast ballots at a camp near Dohuk in Iraq’s Kurdish region. Many fled Islamic State attacks over a decade ago and cannot return due to destroyed infrastructure and ongoing disputes. IS killed and enslaved thousands in Sinjar, targeting Yazidis as heretics. Some families returned home slowly, but multiple armed groups control the area, leaving reconstruction stalled.
Voter Edris Zozani chose the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP). “Independent Yazidis cannot represent us well,” he said. “Strong parties like the KDP can support Yazidi interests in parliament.” His choice reflects a community still seeking security and political influence after years of persecution.
Soldiers and Militias Cast Their Votes
In Baghdad, soldiers, police, and Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) members voted. The PMF, a coalition of mainly Shiite, Iran-backed militias, officially answers to Iraq’s military but retains wide autonomy. Parliament debates laws clarifying PMF authority, sparking U.S. objections.
A PMF fighter, speaking anonymously, said, “I voted for the list that defends the PMF.” Several PMF factions also field political parties. Their electoral performance could reshape Iraq’s military power and affect relations with Washington.
