Iraqi tribal leaders could support gov't, fight Islamic State
Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
Publication Date | 16 August 2014 |
Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iraqi tribal leaders could support gov't, fight Islamic State, 16 August 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/54003f0b5.html [accessed 30 May 2023] |
Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 16, 2014
Sunni tribal leaders in Iraq have said they conditionally support Prime Minister-designate Haidar al-Abadi and could join in the fight against Islamic State militants.
Ali Hatem Suleiman, an influential tribal leader in the western Anbar Province, said he was willing to work with Abadi if he respects the rights of the Sunni community.
Taha Muhammad al-Hamdoon, a spokesman for Sunni tribal and clerical leaders, told Reuters that Sunni representatives throughout Iraq had drawn up a list of demands for the new government.
Many foreign and domestic leaders are hoping Abadi will persuade the tribal leaders – who have sided with IS insurgents because of their opposition to outgoing Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki – to change sides and support the government.
The Sunni tribes support for U.S.-led forces in Iraq between 2006 and 2009 was decisive in defeating Al-Qaeda.
Based on reporting by Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website