Al-Sudani says Disputes with Kurdistan Are Legal, Not Political - Government Formation Requires Time

Peregraf- Caretaker Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani affirmed on Tuesday that the outstanding issues between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region are rooted in legal interpretations rather than political disagreements. His remarks came during a panel at the Middle East Peace and Security (MEPS) Forum in Duhok.

Al-Sudani stated that although his coalition secured the highest number of seats in the November 11 parliamentary elections, "the alliance decided yesterday to move toward forming a larger parliamentary bloc." He added that the process of forming the next government "takes time," but expressed optimism that "a quick consensus among the parties will emerge."

Al-Sudani stressed that the election law should not be shaped by dominant political forces, noting: "We are not in favor of political forces coloring the election law with their existence and power." He also signaled agreement with Masoud Barzani’s recent position on amending the law.

Addressing relations with Erbil, Al-Sudani said, "There is a great deal of understanding between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad. The problems are not political decisions but related to law and interpretation." He highlighted progress on the oil dossier, saying both sides had taken "significant steps in a spirit of partnership," which contributed to the resumption of oil exports.

Al-Sudani emphasized that Iraq has not been subjected to external intervention, saying: "I have not faced any external pressure or interference, and Iraq has not been an arena for the hegemony of any country." He added that the government has succeeded in attracting more than $100 billion in Arab and foreign investments into Iraq.

The Iraqi Prime Minister concluded by noting that political customs should remain in place when they safeguard national interests: "When political practice helps guarantee the interests of all Iraqis, I don't think there is a reason for change."