Breaking Iraq’s political deadlock?
We discuss why Saudi Arabia offers rival Iraqi politicians a platform to reconcile differences.
King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has invited the leaders of Iraq’s political blocs for talks in Riyadh aimed at breaking the deadlock over forming a new government.
King Abdullah suggested they meet after the Hajj pilgrimage in November.
Reaction from Baghdad has been swift with some leaders cautioning against Saudi’s involvement.
Is Riyadh’s rescue bid a help or a hindrance? Is it a genuine initiative to help Iraq, or concern over Shia dominance and growing Iranian influence in Iraqi politics?
Joining the programme are Saad al-Muttalibi, an advisor to the council of ministers, Muhannad al-Bayati, a member of the Iraqi national movement, and Simon Tisdall, an asstistant editor for the British newspaper The Guardian.
This episode of Inside Story aired from Sunday, October 31, 2010.