Iraq’s Political Consensus Complicated by Power Struggle, Unrest Continues in Gaza
Political stability in Iraq hangs in the balance as the government and Parliament scramble to reach a “consensus deal” for the redistribution of positions. The country is on thin ice, especially considering the suspension of parliamentary work by ministers and deputies of the “Progress” coalition after the dismissal of Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi. This predicament threatens to reignite the unrest that preceded and followed the rise of ISIS, echoing the turmoil of the past.
Disruption of Consensual Governance
Prime Minister Sudanese’s government, known for its calm demeanor and avoidance of political skirmishes, took office a year back in October. Riding on the rare wave of political and security stability, the government turned its attention to the crumbling services in Iraq. Their strategy was to combat the state’s chronic failures that have been plaguing Iraq for over two decades. But the judicial decision to dismiss al-Halbousi disrupted this relative tranquility. The dismissal toppled one of the three pillars (legislative, executive, and judiciary) that spearhead the consensual governance in Iraq, thereby complicating the political consensus.
The Aftermath
The dismissal of al-Halbousi, backed by Sunni provinces, has stirred the hornet’s nest. The Supreme Federal Court’s decision has been contested by al-Halbousi as unconstitutional. This has set the stage for a long-drawn legal and political battle that could destabilize the country and affect the scheduled local elections.
Separate Unrest in Gaza
Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported an attack by Israeli forces on al-Maqadma Hospital, one of Gaza’s oldest. The forces surrounded the hospital with tanks, preventing medical crews from aiding the injured. The hospital had been shelled last October, resulting in approximately 500 deaths and 600 injuries. The current circumstances in Gaza are made worse by fuel shortages and the halt of hospital operations due to the Israeli blockade.
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