Iraq, a theater of confrontation between Iran and U.S.
CGTN
Observers of politics in Iraq can be forgiven for feeling whiplash. Last Friday, hundreds of thousands took to the streets to join the populist Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's call to protest against the American military presence in their country. At the same time, al-Sadr withdrew his support for the wider protest movement against corruption and incompetent government that has engulfed the country. Why did he do this and what does this tell us about the state of Iraq's current political situation?
Iraq is experiencing pressure from inside and outside. Internally, the protests, which began in October, have deep roots. They reflect widespread public dissatisfaction with Iraq's political and economic direction. Protesters are frustrated at the slow pace of economic development and the lack of job opportunities, especially for the young.
