Iraq Media Roundup | 31 October - 6 November 2025

Ahead of elections, media discuss escalating political rivalries , U.S. pressure for militia disarmament, and economic strains amid digital governance crisis exposing state's structural fragility.

Tamer Badawi

Last update: 8 November

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

2 November | UTV: Halbusi’s presidency trial balloon and Sunni rivalry

• Taqadum figures framed speakership as Halbusi’s to keep while floating a presidency bid as leverage.

• Guests predicted greater U.S. and Marja’iyya influence and a reduced Iranian role.

• Business money and vote buying flagged as rising election risks.

3 November | UTV: Should Sudani get a second term?

• Critic argued Sudani entrenched quota politics and failed institutional reform.

• Pro-Sudani MP said results exceeded spend and a 50-seat mandate would enable a real cabinet.

4 November | Iraq 24: Adnan Al-Zurfi on security, Ankara, and macroeconomics

• Claimed the U.S. issued a final warning on militia escalation and urged disciplined state response.

• Criticized litigation with Turkey and policy reversals with Erbil as costly and reactive.

• Called for de-centralizing services, stabilizing interest rates, and empowering provinces; said armed factions should not hold ministries.

4 Novembe…