Baghdad: Today, Monday, newspapers published in Baghdad followed the commemoration of Ashura Day and the repercussions of Al-Sadr’s refusal to participate in the elections.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sabah newspaper, published by the Iraqi Media Network, covered the commemoration of millions on Ashura Day, marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). The newspaper, under the headline “Karbala Witnesses the Greatest Mourning,” reported that millions of pilgrims, both from within Iraq and abroad, gathered in holy Karbala on Sunday to participate in the Ashura Day ceremonies. The event was marked by grief and remembrance of the sacrifice of Imam Hussein, his family, and companions, as participants renewed their commitment to fighting injustice. The three Iraqi presidencies expressed their condolences, emphasizing the significance of solidarity and national unity. President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid highlighted Ashura Day as a symbol of sacrifice for truth and jus
tice, advocating for ongoing reform.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani remarked on Imam Hussein’s legacy as a symbol of resistance against tyranny. Parliament Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani underscored the importance of learning from Karbala’s lessons to bolster Iraq’s stability and unity. The United Nations Representative in Iraq, Mohammed al-Hassan, praised the spiritual and organized atmosphere in Karbala, noting that it reflects a unified and cohesive Iraq. Other governorates, including Najaf, Kirkuk, Nineveh, Maysan, and Sulaymaniyah, also observed the anniversary, showcasing widespread public participation that highlighted national cohesion and the values of sacrifice and justice represented by Imam Hussein.

In contrast, Al-Zaman newspaper focused on the political repercussions of Sadrist movement leader Muqtada al-Sadr’s decision not to participate in the elections. The newspaper reported on indirect negotiations between the Coordination Framework coalition and al-Sadr, aimed at pote
ntially reintegrating the movement into political life and the upcoming parliamentary elections. A source disclosed the existence of indirect communication channels between the Sadrist movement’s leadership and the Coordination Framework forces to explore the movement’s return to politics, specifically by participating in the forthcoming elections. The source emphasized the importance of the Sadrist movement’s return to ensure balanced representation in the next parliament, a view widely supported within the Coordination Framework forces.

The State of Law Coalition reiterated its commitment to its understandings and agreements with all political forces and blocs in both the Baghdad Provincial Council and the House of Representatives. The coalition’s statement affirmed its dedication to maintaining positive relationships with these entities to achieve the public good and serve the citizens.