Iraq In Chaos After Political Leader Moqtada al-Sadr Announces His Retirement From Politics

BBC: Buildings stormed after Moqtada al-Sadr, Iraqi political leader, retires

One of Iraq's most powerful figures, who has been at the centre of a long crisis over forming a government, says he is retiring from political life.

Moqtada al-Sadr, a firebrand Shia cleric with millions of followers, announced his decision on Twitter.

Several people were reported killed in clashes after his supporters stormed the presidential palace.

Hundreds have been camped outside parliament for weeks after previously storming it in protest at the deadlock.

Mr Sadr's announcement comes two days after he called for all parties and figures involved in political life following the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq to quit.

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WNU Editor: It looks like a full implosion of the Iraqi government is now underway .... Full Implosion Overnight In 'Green Zone' As Baghdad Threatens To Become Next Kabul (Zero Hedge).

Iraq In Chaos After Political Leader Moqtada al-Sadr Announces His Retirement From Politics

Clashes erupt after Iraqi Shiite cleric resigns, 15 dead -- AP

Clashes kill 10 as Iraq's Sadr quits politics, loyalists storm complex -- Reuters

Deadly violence in Baghdad after cleric says he is quitting politics -- The Guardian

Clashes kill 10 as loyalists of Iraq's Moqtada al-Sadr storm government building following his departure from politics -- ABC News Australia

Several killed in clashes in Baghdad's Green Zone after powerful cleric announces withdrawal from politics -- CNN

Iraq chaos as al-Sadr supporters storm Green Zone after he quits -- Al Jazeera

Protesters storm presidential palace (VIDEOS) -- RT

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