Iraq War News Updates -- October 18, 2008

Supporters of Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr wave national flags and anti-US banners during a demonstration in Baghdad, Iraq on 18 October 2008. About 50,000 protesters participated in a demonstration against the US occupation of Iraq and the planned security deal between the two countries. EPA/SHEHAB AHMED (Photo from M&C)

Muqtada Al-Sadr Urges Rejection Of US-Iraqi Pact
-- Yahoo News/AP

BAGHDAD – Anti-American Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr urged Iraq's parliament to reject a pact that would extend U.S. presence in Iraq for three years as tens of thousands of his followers marched through Baghdad's streets Saturday to reinforce that demand.

The large turnout points to trouble ahead for the U.S.-Iraqi security deal as Sunni and Shiite lawmakers weigh the political risks associated with the far-reaching agreement.

Waving Iraqi flags and green Shiite banners, protesters chanted slogans condemning the pact. The demonstration in the mostly Shiite eastern part of Baghdad was staged under tight security, with army soldiers and police manning checkpoints along the route.

"I am with every Sunni, Shiite or Christian who is opposed to the agreement ... and I reject, condemn and renounce the presence of occupying forces and bases on our beloved land," al-Sadr said in a message read to the crowd on his behalf by a senior aide.

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More News On Iraq

Baghdad Protesters Rally Against US-Iraq Deal -- Voice Of America
Protesters march against proposed U.S.-Iraq pact -- CNN
Tens of thousands of Shiites protest Iraq security deal (Roundup) -- Monsters And Critics
Thousands march in Baghdad against U.S. pact -- Reuters
Iraqis divided over security pact with US -- Yahoo News/AP
U.S., Iraqi Officials Question Terms of Draft Security Deal -- Washington Post
Accords let Baghdad try soldiers -- Washington Times
Iraq must decide on US military pact: Zebari -- AFP
U.S. Makes Firmer Commitment to Pullout Date in Draft of Iraq Accord -- New York Times
Iraq: next few days crucial for security deal with U.S. -- China View
Maliki leads Iraqis out of the shadows -- The Australian
Iraq's Maliki criticizes U.S. commander's comments -- L.A. Times
US military deaths in Iraq war at 4,185 -- AP