DUBAI, UAE - Leaders from the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq met on Tuesday with representatives of the National Shiite Movement, formerly known as the Sadrist Movement, to discuss the country’s current and future political landscape, a source said.

 

This marks the first time the National Shiite Movement, led by influential cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, has engaged in political talks since Sadr announced his withdrawal from politics in August 2022. 

 

In his statement at the time, Sadr declared a “final retirement” from political affairs and ordered the closure of all institutions affiliated with his movement, except for the shrine, museum, and the al-Sadr heritage foundation.

 

The meeting, which included top figures from both groups, reportedly focused on several key issues, including the ongoing political situation and Iraq's current crises, according to the source, who spoke to The New Region.

 

Sadr’s political departure came after years of playing a central role in Iraq’s government and protest movements. His office prohibited any involvement in political matters or activities under the name of the Sadrist Movement, a policy that has remained in place since the August announcement.

 

Further details of the discussions were not immediately available, and it remains unclear whether any specific agreements or initiatives were reached during the talks.

 

The ISCI, previously known as the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), is a Shiite political organization founded in the early 1980s as part of the opposition to Saddam Hussein’s regime. Post-2003, it emerged as a significant force in Iraqi politics, advocating for Shiite interests and promoting a federal Iraq with substantial regional autonomy. 

 

The council has been influential within the Shiite community and has been led by Hamam Hamoudi, a prominent Iraqi politician with a history of involvement in key legislative roles.