ASSESSMENTS

Al-Maliki Plays a Dangerous Game in Unstable Iraq

Aug 11, 2014 | 02:16 GMT

Al-Maliki Plays a Dangerous Game in Unstable Iraq
Supporters of embattled Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki gather in Baghdad on Aug. 9. Despite this public support, al-Maliki faces waning popularity both domestically and overseas.

(SABAH ARAR/AFP/Getty Images)

Summary

There have been numerous unconfirmed reports about a possible coup under way in Baghdad. There have also been reports of troop mobilization and, more recently, explosions that seem to support the view that Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is willing to go to extra-constitutional lengths to sustain his hold on power amid attempts to replace him. In such situations when factual evidence is lacking, there is no way to be certain what is truly unfolding on the ground. But what is known is that al-Maliki faces severe constraints in trying to hold on to power and is well aware of his dwindling options. 

While reports from the ground are unclear, the deployment of security forces across Baghdad could mean a number of things....

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