ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – US Special Envoy to Iraq Mark Savaya on Thursday hailed the Iraqi parliamentary elections as a “clear sign” of progress, stressing that Washington remains committed to supporting Baghdad’s sovereignty and its efforts to end armed militias. 

“The Iraqi people have once again shown their commitment to freedom, the rule of law, and strong national institutions. I commend Prime Minister [Mohammed Shia’ al-] Sudani and his government for ensuring that this important election was held on time and conducted smoothly, a clear sign that Iraq is moving toward greater prosperity and sovereignty,” Savaya said in a statement. 

Highlighting the vote as a “crucial step” toward democracy and stability, the envoy reiterated Washington’s support for Baghdad, especially regarding “endeavors to end external interference and armed militias.” 

Washington has expressed increasing caution over the past years about growing Iranian influence in the Iraqi state, particularly in government and military affairs. The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an umbrella group of armed groups that has been integrated into the Iraqi state apparatus, has many factions that reportedly still maintain strong ties to Iran. 

Iraq held general parliamentary elections on Tuesday, the sixth since the 2003 US-led invasion, with an unexpectedly high turnout rate of 56.11 percent. Nearly 7,750 candidates competed for the legislature’s 329 seats. 

Preliminary results released by the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) on Wednesday show Sudani’s Reconstruction and Development Alliance as the victor of the vote. The premier said his coalition will serve all components of the country. 

“We look forward to working with the next government to deepen our strategic partnership in security, energy, and development, and to help build a stable and prosperous future for all Iraqis,” Savaya stated. 

Of a total of some 20 million eligible voters, 12,003,143 people participated in the vote, including Sunday’s early vote, according to IHEC.