Iraq opened early voting on Sunday as security personnel and displaced citizens cast their ballots ahead of Tuesday’s parliamentary election. About 1.3 million soldiers, police officers, and 26,000 displaced people are eligible to vote early. The election features 7,744 candidates, most linked to sectarian political groups. Their campaigns will decide whether Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani secures a second term in office.
The vote unfolds amid rising regional tension, with Iraq balancing delicate relations between Tehran and Washington while watching fears of new clashes between Israel and Iran. The results will shape Baghdad’s approach to both allies and adversaries.
Displaced Yazidis Cast Their Votes
In northern Iraq’s Kurdish region, displaced Yazidis participated in early voting from a camp near Dohuk. Thousands fled their homes in Sinjar more than ten years ago after brutal attacks by the Islamic State group. IS militants slaughtered and enslaved Yazidis, labeling them heretics during their rampage through Nineveh province.
Although the Islamic State lost its grip in Iraq and Syria, many Yazidis still cannot return home. Ruined infrastructure, political infighting, and the presence of rival armed factions block their way. “I voted for the Kurdish Democratic Party because it can defend our interests,” said Edris Zozani, a displaced Yazidi voter. “Independent Yazidi candidates wouldn’t have the strength to represent us effectively in parliament.”
Security Forces Line Up at the Polls
In Baghdad, Iraqi soldiers, police, and members of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) lined up to vote. The PMF, a coalition of mostly Shiite militias backed by Iran, officially falls under Iraq’s military structure but still operates independently in many areas. The next parliament must confront the PMF’s uncertain role as Washington pressures Baghdad to limit militia influence.
Lawmakers have debated a proposal to formalize the PMF’s connection to the armed forces, drawing objections from U.S. officials. “I voted for the list that supports the PMF,” said one fighter in Baghdad, declining to name the group for safety reasons. Several PMF factions have affiliated political parties competing in the election, ensuring their future remains tied to Iraq’s next government.
