The preliminary results were based on a count of more than 95% of the votes cast in 10 of Iraq's 18 provinces. Sadr has led two uprisings against U.S. forces in Iraq and is one of the few Shi'ite leaders to distance himself from Iran. "We are ready to work and cooperate in forming the strongest government for Iraq, free of corruption," Abadi said in a live televised address. 'IRAN OUT'Winning the largest number of seats does not automatically guarantee that Sadr will be able to hand-pick a prime minister. "Everybody is welcome to provide support to Iraq, but not at the expense of its sovereignty and independence," he added.

Source: dna May 14, 2018 15:48 UTC