Islamic Republic-Linked Parties Win in Iraqi Provincial Council Elections

According to the final results released by the Iraqi Electoral Commission on Thursday, Shiite parties affiliated with the Islamic Republic gained the majority of council seats in most provinces of Iraq. The December 18 voting was the first election in a decade, held amid widespread political apathy in this oil-rich country after years of conflict and corruption. Provincial councils in Iraq were established after the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003. These councils elect regional governors and manage budgets for health, education, and transportation. Voting took place in 15 out of 18 provinces in Iraq, with three provinces in the autonomous Kurdistan region set to hold separate elections next year. In nine central and southern provinces, the major winners were parties or coalitions formed by Iran-aligned groups, which also dominate the Iraqi parliament. The winning parties include the 'Nabni' coalition led by Hadi al-Amiri, a senior commander of the Popular Mobilization Forces. The 'State of Law' coalition led by Nouri al-Maliki, and the Patriotic Forces of the State Coalition led by Ammar al-Hakim and former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi also performed well. This voting occurred ahead of the general parliamentary elections in 2025, and according to the Electoral Commission's report, the turnout rate was 41 percent. This election is seen as a key test for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who came to power over a year ago with the support of Iran-aligned parties. The ruling Shiite coalition in Iraq secured over 100 seats in the provincial councils.