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Iraqi MPs debate U.S. security pact

DUBAI: The Iraqi Parliament has been in session to approve the government’s decision to sign an agreement with the U.S. that would see the exit of U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of 2011.

Parliament is apparently discussing ways to adopt a formulation that would encourage the country’s Sunni community to agree to the draft. Analysts point out that the Kurdish and Shia communities, which dominate Parliament, are ready to concede a major Sunni demand.

The Sunni representatives have been seeking a referendum on the draft as a condition for their support. Apparently, the government is now ready for such a referendum in 2009.

Consequently, even if the draft is approved, it can be rejected next year by way of a referendum. Observers say the government is keen to get a Sunni approval, mainly on account of respect for the views of the Iraq’s top Shia cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani.

Ayatollah Sistani has hinted that an agreement would be possible only if it enjoys majority support, cutting across sectarian fault lines. According to the deal approved by Iraq’s government, U.S. forces will withdraw from Iraqi cities by June 30 and will vacate from the entire country by January 1, 2012. Iraq has also insisted on greater judicial control over American forces outside their bases. In case Parliament approves the pact, a three-member Presidential Council must ratify it. As of now, two members — President Jalal Talabani and Adel Abdul-Mahdi — support the pact. However, Vice-President Tariq al-Hashemi, a Sunni Arab, has so far opposed the deal.

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