Al-Sadr has positioned himself as a bulwark against foreign interference in Iraq. He has a history of violent opposition to U.S. forces in the country but has more recently proved adept at presenting himself to regional and international partners as a more palatable alternative to pro-Iranian rivals.
The Takeaway: Sunni ‘Awakening’ Is A Big Story From Iraq’s Elections
Armed Clash Looms Between Sadr, PMF Factions In Wake Of Iraq Elections