Iraq began early voting ahead of Tuesday’s parliamentary election, a contest involving 7,744 candidates. Security forces and displaced citizens in camps cast ballots on Sunday to decide whether Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani earns a second term. Roughly 1.3 million members of the military and security forces, along with about 26,000 displaced people, are eligible to vote. Most candidates represent parties aligned with sectarian groups, reflecting Iraq’s divided political landscape.
The vote unfolds amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, as Iraq continues balancing relations with both Tehran and Washington. The outcome will shape Iraq’s political direction and its response to escalating regional instability.
Yazidis Cast Votes from Displacement Camps
Displaced Yazidis, still living in camps near Dohuk after fleeing Islamic State violence over a decade ago, joined early voting. Many cannot return to Sinjar due to political gridlock and ruined infrastructure. The Islamic State’s assault on Sinjar killed and enslaved thousands, devastating the Yazidi population.
Although IS lost control of the region years ago, reconstruction has stalled. Competing armed factions still dominate Sinjar, leaving many Yazidis without homes or security. “I voted for the Kurdish Democratic Party,” said Edris Zozani, a displaced Yazidi. “Independent Yazidis can’t protect our interests alone. The KDP gives us a stronger voice in parliament.”
Security Forces and Militias Vote in Baghdad
In Baghdad, Iraqi soldiers, police, and members of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) voted in uniform. The PMF, a coalition of mostly Shiite, Iran-backed militias formed to fight Islamic State, operates with partial independence despite being formally under Iraq’s military command since 2016.
The next parliament must address the PMF’s uncertain role as Baghdad and Washington clash over Iran’s influence in Iraq. Lawmakers are considering a bill to formally integrate the PMF into the armed forces, a move Washington opposes. “I voted for the list that supports the PMF,” said one fighter anonymously after casting his vote. Several PMF factions have political wings running candidates in this election, deepening the link between armed power and politics.
