Ending year-long deadlock, Iraq's parliament elects Mahmoud al-Mashhadani as speaker

Iraq's parliament has elected Sunni lawmaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani as its new speaker, breaking nearly a year of political deadlock over the role. The position had been vacant since last November, when Iraq's Federal Supreme Court removed former speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, sparking a prolonged stand-off among Sunni factions over succession.

Thursday's vote followed weeks of negotiations and an initial round of voting earlier in the day. Al-Mashhadani, backed by the Sunni-majority Taqaddum Party and the Shia-led Coordination Framework, led with 153 votes, while his rival, Salem al-Issawi of the Azm and Sovereignty alliances, received 95. With no candidate achieving the required majority, parliament proceeded to a second round, where al-Mashhadani ultimately secured 182 votes.

Senior figures, including former speaker al-Halbousi and Badr Organisation leader Hadi al-Amiri, held last-minute talks in deputy speaker Mohsen al-Mandalawi's office, seeking a solution to the stalemate. Sunni factions remained divided, with some backing al-Mashhadani, who previously served as speaker from 2006 to 2008, and others supporting al-Issawi.

Al-Mashhadani's election is viewed as essential for restoring order to Iraq's parliament. The speaker's role, traditionally held by a Sunni under Iraq's power-sharing system, is critical in mediating among the country's diverse and often fractious political blocs and ensuring legislative progress.

Following his victory, al-Mashhadani expressed gratitude on social media, pledging to serve with integrity and uphold parliamentary regulations. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, as Iraq faces both upcoming elections and an array of important legislative tasks.

Al-Mashhadani also took the opportunity to reaffirm Iraq's support for the Palestinian and Lebanese people, underscoring Iraq's commitment to move beyond "speeches and slogans." He pledged to actively work with Arab and international parliaments to push for a binding international resolution to cease hostilities, emphasising that Iraq stands firmly in solidarity with these nations and intends to advocate for immediate action on the global stage.

Al-Mashhadani now faces the challenge of navigating Iraq's delicate political landscape, with blocs protective of their influence and representation. His election marks a significant step toward resolving Iraq's legislative gridlock, though significant hurdles remain as lawmakers prepare to address an ambitious agenda.