If Iran has its way, Abadi won't see a second term in Iraq
Iran is seeking to preserve its influence in Iraq and hopes Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who it believes is undermining its efforts there, will not lead the next government.
BAGHDAD — In a military parade July 15 in central Baghdad, Iraq celebrated its victory against the Islamic State (IS) in Mosul. In what many people view as an intentional snub of Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, one regiment of the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) wore what appeared to be the uniform of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Iraqi satellite channels broadcast the prerecorded video of the parade, showing a number of members not wearing the same uniform as the rest of the security formations parading in front of Abadi and the families of veterans who were killed in combat. This generated controversy on social media.
Abadi rivals — those close associates of Iran — seemingly intended to embarrass him or send him the message that they are not at his disposal at all times. This has prompted the question: What does Iran want from Abadi?
Abadi's ties to Iran don't seem to be flourishing. Tehran believes Abadi stands in the way of its projects and allies in the country. This is while Abadi believes his eastern neighbor is seeking full control of the country.
