Can Iraq deadlock be broken?

Iraq's parliament has met for the second time since the country's January elections in a fresh bid to form a workable government.

The opening of the session had already been delayed twice to give talks more time, angering the many Iraqis who voted despite continuing violence.

Shia and Kurdish parties are poised to take a dominant role in Iraqi politics after years of dominance by the minority Sunni Muslims under Saddam Hussein.

Will the deadlock over a new government cause problems in Iraq? What are your hopes for the new parliament? Will it be truly representative of all the Iraqi people?

This debate is now closed. Thank you for your comments.

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The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:

A civil war in Iraq is inevitable KS Balachandran, Chennai, India

The people elected to power are handpicked by the Americans and such a type of government cannot be and will not be accepted by the Iraqis. The Americans and the Britons have made a mess in Iraq and unless they withdraw from Iraq totally no government could be formed in Iraq. A civil war in Iraq is inevitable and Bush and Blair should be held responsible if it happens.
KS Balachandran, Chennai, India

Yes. The deadlock can be broken, if only the occupying American forces vacate Iraq. If only Bush keeps his hands off from Iraq. If only Bush learns to behave like a good president of the US and minds his own business. Till then there will be deadlock and no peace.
C. Sachidananda Narayanan, Tirunelveli, India

Democracy is messy and is not the easiest government, but what other choices to you have.
Patrick, OHIO, USA

Will somebody define just what version of 'democracy' they hope to impose on Iraq? It is worth remembering that the US has a veto on 'unsuitable' candidates for major positions.
Peter Hindrup, Bondi Junction Australia

I fear Iraq will descend into civil war unless the deadlock is broken soon P Bolton, US

I fear Iraq will descend into civil war unless the deadlock is broken soon. Either way, our involvement in Iraq is only just beginning. I think it's a bit premature to claim Iraq is "no Vietnam", that war lasted a full 10 years. Besides, we don't want another Vietnam.
P Bolton, US

The delays witnessed in forming a new Iraqi government favour several parties. Iraq's neighbouring countries as well as the US government surprisingly seem to favour ex-Baathists to lead a new democratic Iraq. What an irony.
Ali al-Bayaty, Abu Dhabi, UAE

I believe it is the Sunni politicians that are causing the trouble. They tell their people not to vote in the elections, then are angry when they don't get leading positions in the government. Al-Yawr should step down and accept the speaker's position.
Abdul al-Suja, Ramallah, Iraq

I am reading Iraqi views here and these are the opinions that truly matter. The Iraqi people voted and chose their leaders. The Iraqi people in the end will decide the direction of their country. That is as it should be. In the end Iraqis will defend their chosen government and take action against the terrorist acts being committed against their people by those whom only care about their own agenda and not the Iraqi people.
Barb, Crystal, MN, USA

Well, welcome to the growing pains of democracy. Unfortunately, the Iraqis need to learn the fundamentals of working together, but it's one of the first steps in building a successful government.
John, Provo, USA

Why shouldn't the Shia and the Kurds want revenge? They were robbed, imprisoned, tortured, and killed by the Sunnis for decades, the Sunnis tried to keep Saddam Hussein in power, they are behind much of the violence and chaos wrecking the country, and they wouldn't even vote or participate in the democracy when offered a chance to be a partner. They will be lucky if the Shia don't take the oil fields in the south, the Kurds take the oil in the north then both throw the Sunnis out to starve and, if they continue to cause trouble, fight a two-front war against them. It's time for the Sunnis to decide whether or not they want to be part of a new democratic united Iraq or suffer the consequences. Their day of absolute rule is over.
Mark, USA

Sounds like a an argument in the house of commons to me. Let them fight it out amongst themselves. I think its great to have these internal debates about the best future of the country of Iraq. Good luck and remember; The whole world wanted you to live in bondage because they hated the USA more than your freedom.
Craig Traylor, Houston, Texas, USA

It is not unusual for a new government to be a little in disarray at the beginning. Over time they will become more experienced and cooperative with one another. Let's hope they do not become like to New York State Government, which has not passed a single budget on time in the last ten years. They have been voted among the worst in the US. We will have to give Iraq time and let them overcome their own obstacles.
Tony, USA

The French Jacobins failed to build a new society on the bones of the ancient regime. Likewise, the US and Brits will fail, too, in Iraq. A new society will be crafted in Iraq, but only long after this neocon-inspired debacle has become a historical footnote.
Bill Hughes, Baltimore, MD, USA

When Saddam came to power, he appeared before the main legislative body at the time and naysayers were summarily removed and killed. The rest of them learned to keep their mouths shut and nod their heads in agreement which was the way things were done for the next few decades. Some people think the current bickering means failure. On the contrary, that's just the sounds of freedom. It's what happens when you let others express their views and struggle to reach a compromise. Iraqis could go back to the old system. It's a fairly simple and efficient decision-making process - you just take a gun and kill anyone with an opposing view.
Steve, Los Angeles, CA

I fervently hope so, for one reason and one reason only... for the people's sake. It is they, Sunni, Kurd, Shia, Marsh Arab, and Christian, who have all suffered, in one way or another, for decades. Whatever the make-up of the final government, I hope it will be inclusive, will live in harmony with the world community and will serve all its citizens equally, allowing everyone to prosper and participate in every aspect of society. I hope someday it won't matter what tribe or sect one belongs to, but instead that one considers him/herself Iraqi first.
PM, NYC, US

Democratic principles of representative government needs to be aligned to Islamic traditions Jasabanta Choudhuri, Kolkata, India

This election is only a prelude to a more permanent government based on a written constitution for governance, the rule of law and continuing sovereignty in Iraq. The assembled parliamentarians are in a sense vested with the task of drafting this constitution which will in turn pave the way for this parliament to be dissolved. The Islamic tradition of governance is clearly the basis for the Iraqi state, although democratic principles of representative government needs to be aligned to Islamic traditions that are a source of inherent strength and the mix of opportunity and tradition needs to be carefully nurtured by these "founding fathers". The current wrangle over formation of a government seems to me skewed as there is an apparent confusion on what this parliament is meant to achieve.
Jasabanta Choudhuri, Kolkata, India

If political deadlock is broken in Iraq, this would definitely be internationally acclaimed as an accomplishment. The best thing that could happen at this point is to achieve a democracy in the Middle East. The United States should definitely not pull out of Iraq, until they have achieved some sort of stability. Otherwise, history will repeat itself, and extremist parties will inevitably force their aggressions and horrors on the populations. Let the United States finish the job that it started, and let's take care not to let history repeat itself.
Aaron Hakim, Mississauga, Canada

From BBCArabic.com: The winning Iraqi United Coalition should never have entered into deals before the convening of the parliament to avoid the accusations that they are procrastinating. They won the election and they should have put their conditions on the table for other to accept or reject. This is the basic tenet of democracy. As to those in the Arab world whose comments are based on what they watch on TV, I find it odd that people who still live in dictatorships can discuss issues so far removed from their daily experiences.
Zein, Baghdad, Iraq

From BBCArabic.com: Iraq politicians should now put all their differences to one side and fours on building a secure and stale Iraq for Sunnis, Shias, Kurds and all other Iraqis to live in peace.
Wael, Basra, Iraq

From BBCArabic.com: God help our elected members of parliament. They are trying to involve the Arab Sunnis in Iraq, who were excluded from the political process by terror, and at the same time they have to endure the pressure from Iraqi public opinion which wants to see a new government formed as soon as possible and wants to see terrorism mercilessly dealt with.
Amir, Baghdad, Iraq

From BBCArabic.com: This is an unjustified and deliberate delay aimed at circumventing the results of the election and denies the Iraq United Coalition their victory. It is incumbent on those whom we have trusted and voted for, namely the winning Iraqi Coalition, to tell us the truth about who is behind this delay and why. They should get on with forming a government regardless of what others say. They are after all the largest bloc in parliament and they have the right to form a government on their own if need be.
Mohamed Kafaji, Babylon, Iraq

We do not want a constitution based on Islamic laws. We want a free and democratic/secular country with no interference whatsoever from religion whether be it Islam or Christianity. Good luck to the new Iraqi parliament.
RA, Australia

Better a "puppet" regime (which I do not believe) than a ruthless dictator who squanders the national wealth for his own purposes and who crushes the liberty of the majority.
Ed, Laguna Beach, California, USA

It seems to me that there is very little hope and space for the coming Iraqi administration to be truly independent, as it will depend on the American presence to survive. I think it is a political suicide for politicians who will serve in this transitional government, as they will inevitably not succeed in improving basic services unless the current American dominated 'system' is radically challenged.
Tara Swift, Orpington, Kent, UK

One major difficulty is that Iraqi politics continues to be dominated by religious sectarian interests John Holmes, Canada

One major difficulty is that Iraqi politics continues to be dominated by religious sectarian interests. That strife appears more important to Iraqi contenders than the principle of achieving the best possible living standard for all the people. That basic, secular, principle has yet to overcome a fundamental concern with such religious strife, which threatens to destroy any improvements to the quality of life anyone may try to make.
John Holmes, Canada

I am sick and tired of reading the ramblings of all the pessimists and US bashers out there. In case people have forgotten, it took the US well over 12 years to form our democracy. Iraq just had their first free elections in January. Can any of you so called "democracy experts" find some patience in your life and let the Iraqi people go on forming their own government? Yes there will be snags, there will be some hard times ahead, but I can't believe you all expect everything to be running smoothly two months after a "free" election and after being dominated and terrorised for three decades under Saddam. How about using some common sense and letting the Iraqi people work on getting their government up and running?
Jeff K, Naperville, IL, USA

I will gladly enlighten DRL of UK. In the recent elections the Iraqi people were not "only given the option of voting for candidates approved by the coalition." There were dozens of parties on the ballot and the winning party led by al-Sistani is not a US puppet. As for why Saddam's "elections" had a higher turnout than this year's, you would turnout to vote as well if you faced jail time or death for staying at home.
Jan Burton, Toronto, Canada

I spent some wonderful times in Iraq and met some wonderful people, many of them now dead, killed in horrific circumstances. I hope for the Iraqi people the good future that any peoples of good intentions deserve. There is something that puzzles me however. Under Saddam, the Iraqi people where only given the option of voting for candidates approved by Saddam himself. Under the coalition the Iraqi people where only given the option of voting for candidates approved by the coalition - the coalition's puppets, mostly the people that where in exile for being insurgents during the old regime. I also wonder what emphasis can be put on the much touted 58% turnout for the coalition's elections, when the turnout for Saddam's elections was a lot more than that. Anybody like to enlighten me?
DRL, Milton Keynes, UK

To all those advising the parliament to immediately kick out American troops: There is no more certain path to bedlam. US troops are the sole force preventing all-out civil war and to send them packing in the name of spite would be childish and irresponsible. The Iraqi government should make a plan to phase out the US presence in a manner that will ensure peace and success.
Matt, Houston, Texas US

I hope that the Iraqis have a chance to form a fair form of democracy rather than the American style of democracy that they attempt to force on everyone else.
Russ, Dundee, Scotland

My sincere hope is that it does succeed. But with the country still occupied, press restrictions, the mass boycott of the vote and people unaware whom they were voting for until hours before the polls opened - I'm not confident.
Antony, London, UK

It's a joke parliament. How can anyone claim that democracy is at work when thousands of Iraqis are prepared to blow up fellow Iraqis to prevent the process from moving forward? The problem for the Americans is that the reality of the unchanged security situation shows that no real progress has been made and as one by one, coalition troops return home, the security situation is going to get worse.
John Farmer, Henley-on-Thames, UK

First, I hope the Iraqis ignore the naysayers from the West and simply struggle on. As the first democracy in Iraq, I think their progress has been fantastic. They will debate, discuss, haggle, and in the end, make whatever decisions are best for their country. Eventually, I hope they thank the all of military personnel who sacrificed so much for this, especially the Iraqis who continue to work to better their country. Remember, the Americans want our troops home ASAP, but not before Iraq is stable.
Kevin, Boston, USA

The US should get ready to leave because they now have a legal, independent government in Iraq Farah Mailk, Pakistan

You can never force peace down anyone's throat at gunpoint. Let's hope that the Iraqi people, who have gone through a lot of hardships in the last few decades, finally find some peace and harmony. The US should get ready to leave Iraq because they now have a legal, independent government in Iraq. The need for their occupation holds no ground now.
Farah Mailk, Pakistan

We all hope that this democratic government will last for many years to come, and help not only rebuild Iraq, but wipe Iraq clean of all the al-Qaeda jihadist terror groups that have caused so much horror and destruction since Saddam was sent to jail.
Alex Novak, Boston, MA, USA

I, originating from the Middle East, know that any attempt to lead a country under foreign occupation is to a certain sense useless and unnecessary. The conflict in Iraq will only intensify, and in my mind the USA has committed itself to a very long war. Maybe that's what they want?
Asad, Perth, Australia

Compare this so-called deadlock to the start of most democracies and it's peanuts. Better a stalemate between the parties than the guillotines and general incompetence that followed most revolutions. Well done Iraq, just make sure you get the foreign troops and fingers out before they can spoil it.
Alex, Leicester, UK

Since this parliament was elected as a consequence of the invasion and destruction of Iraq it will not survive and has no moral standing in the world.
Tony Crowley, Mc Lean, VA, USA

So many around the world have an expectation of the Iraqis creating a final government in a shorter time frame then the founding of their own countries' governments that is just plain unrealistic. It is the process of creating self-rule that will make the final outcome strong. Failure would be to abandon the concepts of self-rule, success is the continued negotiating of what it will look like when finished someday. The absence of a dictatorship during this process is success for most already. Give them time to do what is right for all.
Jim H, Sudbury, USA

I sincerely hope the Iraqis resolve will all their ethnic problems and agree on a government of unity; they deserve to live in peace after three decades of Saddam's tyranny, 12 years of cruel US sanctions, and two years under constant bombardment by the coalition forces and terrorist attacks of the insurgents. The harsh reality is that the Iraqi people are neither free nor secure with the three main ethnic having different agendas - the Shia, the Kurds and the Sunnis. Add to that the American's agenda and you have total disunity.
Nizam Yagoub, Saudi Arabia

Nobody expected an easy transition from years of brutal dictatorship to democratic rule Don Gibson, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England

Nobody expected an easy transition from years of brutal dictatorship to democratic rule. Iraq's journey to peace will be, it seems, a long and painful one. Instead of criticising the Americans and allies who have opened the way for Iraq towards democracy, everyone should help to enable this long-suffering people towards a peaceful future. The US and its allies have at least tried to make this possible and have paid dearly for their efforts. Any critics are obviously blind to this sacrifice that has been made.
Don Gibson, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England

As an Iranian, my greatest wish is that Iraq succeeds in establishing a true democracy. This, of course, means that the Americans and their allies will have to stick around until the Iraqis are able to take care of their security needs. And, most of all, it means that the Iraqis must remain always vigilant not to let the Iranian mullahs to mess up with the democratic process in Iraq. We must never forget the disasters caused by the mullahs and by Saddam. Our peoples must help each other to build a better future for both our nations. We both deserve it.
Irani e Khoshbin, Iranian in Europe

If it takes close to two months to form a government, how will the parliament deal with the complicated constitutional issues of state religion and Kurdish autonomy? Meanwhile, the job of defeating a determined insurgency will weigh heavily on whatever fragile alliance is formed. Hope is about all the Iraqis have right now.
Christopher, Memphis, USA

I simply do not understand how Iraq is supposed to function as a parliamentary democracy. A couple of years ago Iraq was a dictatorship. It then became a military-controlled war zone. I suspect the adjustment to anything resembling freedom will be far from the fun-filled journey that the US suggests.
Emile Scheffel, Kamloops, Canada

It's only been two months since the election of the interim parliament and there are talks of problems because of a deadlock vote on a new government. Unbelievable. Yes, I understand the urgency, but at the same time, a decision on such an important matter, and I mean really important, cannot be rushed or expected to happen over night. In my heart, I think the Iraqis will select a government that will allow all Iraqis have unalienable rights. May Iraq be democratic and free.
Albert Macias, Huron, CA, USA

I think that this is a hopeful sign for democracy and peace in the Middle East. Realistically, it is to early to tell what direction it could go in. The USA does make mistakes but we try to do what is right. I am confident that history will show that freedom has prevailed.
Rick Lucas, Louisville, Ky, USA

The parliament will represent the few who voted, and my hopes are not high. It is ridiculous to expect much from a parliament which is the result of having American principles shoved down another culture's throat! It will take generations until anything resembling a true democracy is established in the region.
Alexander Martinez, Düsseldorf, Germany

In my opinion peace in Iraq cannot be achieved without solving the Kurdish issue S Parnian, Australia

In my opinion peace in Iraq cannot be achieved without solving the Kurdish issue, because the majority of Kurds want an independent state as we saw 99% of Kurds voted for independent in an unofficial referendum, therefore agreeing to their rightful demands is the only way to unified Iraq.
S Parnian, Adelaide, Australia

My true hope is that Iraq becomes stable and the parliament can sit down for real work. But, then I am confronted with the question: How can this happen with suicide bombers in every corners of the country? On the first meeting, the parliament was greeted with a massive suicide bomb. That is not a good sign.

Parliament needs peace and rest of mind to work, but with suicide bombers almost everywhere, can they really focus? I hope there is a way out. I was told that, "To dine with the devil you will need a long spoon". Maybe that is what the Iraqi parliament needs at this moment, even if it means amounts to appealing to the insurgents for a ceasefire.
Fred, Canada

For the Iraqi parliament to get legitimacy and international recognition, one of its first legislations should be calling for the unconditional stay of American forces and their allies in Iraq and not replacing them with those of Arab League, Organisation of Islamic Conference and United Nations. Arabs/Muslims will cause only more chaos, just look at Lebanon.
Zakie Fakhoury, Baalbeck, Lebanon

As the world's newest American colony, Iraq will be under extreme pressure to perform in an acceptable fashion. The world is pretty powerless to stop Bush and his inner circle from running things. A serious misfortune for the rest of the world.
Gary, Seoul, South Korea

Iraq should stay as one united Arab state for all groups and religions. The people of Iraq - Sunnis, Shias and Kurds - represent the Iraqi society and, should have a say in their destiny without any outside interference from anyone.
Fouad, Houston, Texas, USA

The only way that [the parliament] will truly become representative of all Iraqi people is if they have a say about it without any interference or foreign input Cristian Nyari, NYC, USA

Iraq should be left completely alone in this. Democracy comes from within, not from the outside. The only way that [the parliament] will truly become representative of all Iraqi people is if they have a say about it without any interference or foreign input.
Cristian Nyari, NYC, USA

Democracy in Iraq will always mean a two party-state because the Iraqi Sunnis will not participate in its governance as long as the sectarian divide dominates the political structure of the country. There is a huge gap of trust and suspicion between the Sunnis and Shias going back nearly 1400 years... The first thing that the Iraqis must do is to learn to live in peace and harmony amongst themselves as one nation and not as Sunnis and Shias or Kurds.
Saqib Khan, UK

Without fulfilling the Kurdish demands there will be no peace and democracy in Iraq for sure.
A. Marouf, Austria, Vienna

Living here in the Balkans gives a much better perspective... Just check Bosnia or Kosovo if you want to know where it all leads. The Bosnian war ended 10 years ago and they still cannot create a unified country... Western people take democracy for granted. They have no idea how hard it is to remove the mindset of a previous regime from people.
Hrvoje, Zagreb, Croatia

The US needs to leave Iraq for a true democratic society to flourish.
Chris, Plymouth, UK

Democracy is a messy thing but history has shown when you give people the power to choose their government and openly criticize its actions you end up with a stable economically secure country. Look at where most of the anti-western posting are coming from - the west. To the Iraqis, don't be discouraged, let them rant and rave (its part of the process). At the end of the day, your vote counts just as much as the person next to you.
Mike, Spotsylvania, USA

I believe all US hopes for this cardboard government will crumble Artiom, Moscow, Russia

I believe all US hopes for this cardboard government will crumble. You know the situation looks similar to one we Russians have in Chechnya, with the same cardboard government and high-ranking officials assuring Russian citizens that Chechnya is a safer place now. Iraq is very unstable; suicide bombers feel free and are gaining ground and support, terrorist attacks are numerous.
Artiom, Moscow, Russia

I hope that the Iraqi parliament will find a way to reach out to the international community for help. Foreign interference is one thing, but foreign assistance is another.
Matthew Houston, San Marcos, Texas, USA

As countries are now leaving Iraq, I have to wonder how this government will get on? Is the USA going to stay to keep order? Will Americans allow the US to keep soldiers in Iraq to keep order? There are many problems and it seems to me only the Iraqis can make things right in their country. So maybe it is time everyone leaves and let them handle things. Then, and only then, will anyone see how it is going to go. Hopefully this won't be another scene as was in Lebanon or some other countries.
Jude, Wisconsin, America

A true parliament will be formed after the US leaves Iraq and Sunni Muslims have full participation.
Momin, Bangladesh

What - there are not any problems now? The change that is occurring in Iraq is going to take some time. You have a country whose majority has been oppressed for years. They are trying to move out from under an environment of fear which many people were brought up in as children. This takes time and they seem to be doing a good job in the infancy of their government. The beginning is just that, a beginning. Will it be perfect? Will everyone be "truly" represented? No, but that's OK as long as they can continue moving forward and keep their momentum. Unfortunately the citizens and government are under the world microscope. Everything they do, every move they make will be dissected by the world. This is going to keep things complicated.
Tom, NY USA

As an American who vehemently denounced this conflict yet had the decency to support it once it began, I would like to see the Iraqis celebrate their diversity, debate and resolve issues, and grow to become a proud democratic nation. It would be nice if they could at least get their collective act together and show a little gratitude towards all those sacrifices from which they have received this most basic human right, freedom.
WJC, South Carolina, USA

I hope that it will bring peace and stability to the country forth right, and also pave a future of freedom and prosperity for the general middle east area. With that PC stuff said I hope it will prove to all the doubters and haters of my great nation that America is still capable of good.
MLB, NYC

The passion to be an Iraqi needs to be reignited under one flag Garo Gabrielian, Sydney

Freedom to rule has its pains. President Hussein had his own democratic policy that kept most people in order and it worked to some degree for that era. The newly elected members of government are part of a new era and need to recognise the need to work together or risk losing all. The passion to be an Iraqi needs to be reignited under one flag.
Garo Gabrielian, Sydney, Australia

I have been really disappointed by the Kurdish attitude to the talks. Their demands are more than the United Iraqi Alliance have the authority to give, with some being nothing short of greedy. How can one can justify Kurds having a higher ratio of national income than their population, or banning the Iraqi national guard from entering Kurdish provinces of Iraq?
Haider Al-Najjar, Bristol, UK

It all depends what the West will allow them to do. If they are free to exercise their own judgement based on what is best for Iraq, then they will succeed. If they are made to govern by what the West thinks best, then they are doomed to failure.
Nigel Darwent, Trinidad and Tobago.

As an Iraqi I see no doubt with respect to the legitimacy of this parliament. It was the Iraqi people who decided their legitimacy by voting. This nation will prevail against all the odds presented by the terrorists. Your time will come terrorists, whoever you may be.
Hussain, London, UK

I think this is the best that can be done at this stage. My hope is that eventually, there will be local government representation in every part of the country with local officials voted in to represent their constituents.
Miriam Durgut, Phoenix, AZ

My hope is that Iraq becomes a democratic, federal, pluralistic society that respect human rights, freedom expression, women's rights and all minorities Ary Hassan, Norway

My hope is that Iraq becomes a democratic, federal, pluralistic society that respect human rights, freedom expression, women's rights and all minorities. If democracy succeeds in Iraq it will spread the same to the whole of the Middle East who are very thirsty to taste it.
Ary Hassan, Kurd living in Norway

What the people of Iraq deserve now is a long-lasting settlement and peace. The only way to achieve stability in Iraq is through the democratic processes of legislative government. Europe and America must continue to support the Iraqi people in this aim. We must stand by the Iraqi people and finish what we in the West set in motion.
Nick, Spalding, UK

I think I have to agree with Vijai from Mumbai, India, here. The decision of the UN mandate to require a 2/3 majority may turn out to be a mistake is this prevents any Iraqi government being formed at all. However, it's too late to change this now, so I can only hope that the Shia and Kurd parties forget their differences for the time being, stop dithering and hurry up agreeing a government.
Christopher Neville-Smith, Durham, England

My hope is that it can help the Iraqi people to live the lives they deserve to lead after suffering through years of oppression and also that it can add a democratic voice to the middle east region.
Alan Burnett, Auckland, New Zealand

As an Iraqi, I hope for the stability and peace that has eluded Iraq for decades. I wish for the Iraqi government to put the needs of its people first and for Iraqis to finally live in comfort and peace of mind. I find is disgusting that some people, like Nina from Canada, wish for chaos only to prove American claims wrong, as if suffering, death and destruction are only negative when caused by Americans.
Ali, London, England

It is difficult to see the Sunnis accepting Shia rule. They would rather fight. As long as Saddam Hussein is alive they will hope to regain control of Iraq.
Ted Pritchett, Big Bear City, USA

What I want or for that matter what any non-Iraqi wants of the new Iraqi Parliament is not important. What's important is what the Iraqi people want. The problem is that what is politically important is that the new parliament live up to the ideals of the USA and its allies. Satisfy them and the parliament will continue to exist. Fail to satisfy them and it will fail because the coalition is what counts, not the ordinary Iraqi.
William Burt, Melbourne, Australia

Its first order of business should be to demand the immediate withdrawal of all American troops Randy, Los Angeles, USA

My hope is that it is formed quickly and its first order of business should be to demand the immediate withdrawal of all American troops. The second order of business should be the breaking of any and all diplomatic ties to the Bush regime.
Randy, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Nina, Toronto Canada: That is truly sickening that anyone would wish for chaos and civil war, especially on a people that have lived under such chaos for generations. Your comment simply shows how arrogant naysayers of this war truly are alike; wishing harm over peace to prove a political point against someone you dislike is disturbingly blind. May this be a strong reminder of not only the seriousness of enemies who wish us harm, but of those who wish to pacify their actions at the expense of others wellbeing. What a shame.
Mav, American in St Petersburg, Russia

I hate to say this to Iraqis, but I pray for chaos and civil war: it's the only way to stop Bush's policies and show that peace can never come through force. If Iraq gets peace, Bush wins credibility. It cannot be allowed to happen.
Nina, Toronto, Canada

I think the Kurds are playing their options well and I think they shouldn't accept anything that isn't signed publicly, else they will lose the little self-government they have again as nobody (neither the Arabs, nor the Americans, nor the Turks, nor the Iranians) wants to allow them to achieve their self-rule. A federal state is the least they should settle for. Unlike Shias, Kurds have been fighting for their self-determination since before I was born, they deserve to achieve something more than good words.
Luis, Bilbao, Basque Country

I hope the first day of the Iraqi parliament is one of celebration and that great statesmen step forward. Intransigence takes a back seat when people are happy and it's more likely that a framework for government can be formed which will make the citizens proud.
Dale Lanan, Longmont, Colorado, USA

I hope the country will, for once, seize this opportunity with both hands and deal harshly with anyone who endeavours to revoke the rights of freedom and democracy. The world needs a beacon of hope in the Middle East - Iraq can be that beacon. I wish the people of Iraq well in this endeavour.
Douglas Davies, Johannesburg, South Africa

What parliament? A puppet government under an occupation. What hopes can we have? Iraqis need to understand this is a cover to provide cover-up to the corrupt Bush administration. Americans, please wake up and see how greedy you are.
Sahil, Sydney, Australia

We Iraqis who risked our lives to vote deserve to have representation Ali Isam, Baghdad, Iraq

I hope that the new parliament gets formed quickly. We Iraqis who risked our lives to vote deserve to have representation. To my fellow Kurdish brothers that posted here, I ask them to understand the basics of democracy. It is not getting everything you want, and it is only through constant negotiations that we would be able to solve this process. As for others, I am sorry to hear that Iraq has become a war zone for Bush-whacking. If being liberal means you are peace loving, then maybe you should study what is happening more clearly.
Ali Isam, Baghdad, Iraq

I am surprised by this unpractical requirement of 67% to form the government in Iraq. If this requirement is imposed on other democracies then they will fail including largest democracy India, the oldest in USA and Europe or any where. Kurds are badly exploiting this 67% clause.
Vijai, Mumbai, India

Compromise, unity, selfless objectives and harmony with Arab objectives are the keys to opening doors and the way forward, but we have too many conflicts that can be manipulated to have a Western friendly parliament, and it has to be that way because of the occupation and the sweeping powers exercised by America. This will give the parliament and the government limited freedom and a puppet role playing to the Americans tune using all popular political slogans and charters.
Ahmad Hmoud, Jordan

At the election on 30 January the turnout was 58% therefore the new parliament will represent that segment of the nation. Considering the current circumstances it is as good as Iraqis will get, I am afraid. Maybe the next general election will be really free, held in more secure circumstances, hence will result in a truly representative parliament. But that is far from now.
Mary McCannon, Budapest, Hungary

I hope they infuse a sense of trust among the people they govern Rahul Shetty, Udupi

I hope they infuse a sense of trust among the people they govern. For democracy to be successful trust in it is imperative. I hope the leaders will achieve this.
Rahul Shetty, Udupi

Where are all the anti-Bush, anti-interventionist, anti-American posts that have frequented these message boards on this topic for so long? Is one page of short congratulations the only response from readers who would have filled this site with such postings before the Iraqi parliament was created. My hope for the Iraqi parliament is for it to be an example to all those who opposed a liberated Iraq.
Simon, Chester, USA

The Iraqi parties are taking so long to choose a government because they're not yet used to negotiations and compromise, which is a key element of parliamentary politics. I'm sure that a strong government will come out of this and that given some time Iraq will start to resemble a real democracy. Gone are the times of a tyrant who decided everything surrounded by yes-men. The mere fact that parties are forced to make a coalition is extremely positive, in my view.
Andrea Baucero, Milano, Italia

I say God bless the lot of them. They may not be the "right" people, they may not be truly representative of the people of Iraq, but they are a start, a start to self-rule, to democracy, and ultimately to freedom. The next elections will tell the full story, and I (for one) am hopeful that the people of Iraq will find it in their hearts to leave this shameful war we have foisted on them behind, and create a new society and nation, worthy of their tremendous history, from the wreckage they have been left.
Stanley Carswell, Brooklyn, NY, USA

The ongoing insurgency has to be brought to a close through negotiations before the next round of elections Saravan, UK

The onset of peace and stability will depend on a government representative of all peoples under a federal parliamentary system eventually. Ideally, the ongoing insurgency has to be brought to a close through negotiations before the next round of elections planned at the end of this year. A greater role for the UN in orchestrating this may work and/or through acceptable third party negotiations. More violence can only beget still more violence. The Iraqi people surely have seen enough of it.
Saravan, UK

I have lost a number of US military friends and just received news a very brave Iraqi translator was murdered. For all their sake I so much want the government to succeed.
Richard, Los Angeles, USA

It's amazing. Some people wish chaos and civil war on Iraq just to show that Bush is wrong. Anyone, with an inch of decency should wish that the parliament will succeed against all odds and create something that has never existed in the Muslim world. Freedom.
Dennis, Canada

I think it will be representative of the people and let's hope the people stand behind it in order to stabilize their country.
Dwayne Chastain, West Jefferson, Ohio

As a Kurd, I am sceptical of the Shia intention. What Kurds ask for are legitimate rights. What really surprises me is the Iraqi Shia indirectly supporting the continuum of Saddam's policy in Kurdish areas, especially those areas taken away by force. The only way Iraq could survive is building trust, and destroying the element of Baathist and their policy in the Kurdish area, not continuing it.
Dr Kawa Ibrahiem, Cambridge, Canada

I think that the election is a good start. What we need to make sure is that religion is separated from politics in the sense that no religious party should be able take over the state and then change the rules of the political game, so that democracy is hijacked, just as they did in Iran and tried to do in Algeria.
Raphael, Montreal, Canada

My sincere hope is that the people of Iraq leave cultural/religious differences behind MR, Texas, USA

As an American who feels we were duped into invading Iraq by the Bush Administration, my sincere hope is that the people of Iraq leave cultural/religious differences behind. The sooner they politically bond, the sooner they can thumb their nose at the USA and point us to the exit.
MR, Texas, USA

My hopes? Naturally they are for the differing factions to realize that in unity there is strength. They can be much greater than the sum of their parts if they unite to form a government of Iraqis, by Iraqis and for Iraqis. Only in this unity will they be able to defeat those who would once again subjugate them under a brutal government which denies any and every individual their freedom.
Douglas, Louisiana, USA

A stable government of any kind.
Richard Naff, Lakewood, CO, USA

I have no hopes for this "parliament" as it was elected through a process that began by an illegal invasion of the country by Americans and their allies.
Ahmad Farooq, Islamabad and Pakistan

I hope they remember that ultimately they are all Iraqi and not just Shia, Sunni, Arab or Kurd Z Al-Hindawi, Iraqi in London

I hope that the Kurdish and Shia political parties that won the majority of votes will put the needs of the suffering Iraqi people first before their own political ambitions and regional aspirations as has been shown by the Kurdish parties. I hope they remember that ultimately they are all Iraqi and not just Shia, Sunni, Arab or Kurd.
Zaid Al-Hindawi, Iraqi in London, UK

Nina, Toronto, Canada: Please point out any time in history when peace has come about without some force having been used first. Your comments reveal a disturbing willingness to let people die for the sake of your own need to be right and feel superior. That is sad, pathetic, and definitely not peaceful or tolerant.
Ashley, Washington DC, USA

As a Kurd I have lost all my hopes after the denial of the Iraqi groups of the legitimate Kurdish demands.
Bryar Mariwani, London, UK

As an Iranian, I am very hopeful and wish the Iraqis all the best.
Ali Hosseini, Yazd, Iran

My hopes are that the Iraqi parliament will be a voice for all Iraqis and will ask for a timetable for a speedy withdrawal of the occupation forces from Iraq, so that the next elections would be free and fair. May God help the Iraqi people live in peace!
Youssef, Montreal, Canada

I hope that the Iraq parliament actually gets to be in charge of something that matters. However, I don't expect that it will have the guts to tell the USA to go home.
Gary Chiles, Wellington, New Zealand

None. Iraq's "parliament" is an arm of the US government.
Jon Davis, USA

This is a great victory for democracy and the stability of a much suffered Middle East, let us hope that now the United Nations will take a more active role in this and future endeavours.
Carlos Mesquita, Buenos Aires, Argentina

I hope that all parties will have their input without foreign interference. I hope it doesn't become a majority power play.
Gary H, Reading, USA

My hopes are mirrored by those of millions of my countrymen and fellow world citizens - that the Iraq parliament will be a huge success by showing their wisdom in including the minority Sunnis, despite the rash of murders committed by insurgents trying to foment civil war. To all Iraqis I say best wishes for a long and rich democratic society.
Chris, US

Shia and Kurdish leaders are advised to represent all Iraqis and not to look for revenge Sichalwe Haggai, Lusaka, Zambia

Shia and Kurdish leaders are advised to represent all Iraqis and not to look for revenge.
Sichalwe Haggai, Lusaka, Zambia

The night of the Iraqi elections my son called home from Iraq and said the elections went smoothly in his sector and he was coming home. After my son serving a year in Iraq in the American army, I am hoping that the Iraqis make the most of their new freedom and responsibilities and make their nation into a country that represents all the people. The best of luck to you all.
Diana, Michigan, USA

The Iraqi government faces the tricky task of trying to govern a country half-destroyed by the war and teeming with Islamic extremists as a result. If they can't contain the problem, I fear that the government won't last long and Iraq will descend into anarchy.
Darryl LeCount, Paderborn, Germany

For the Iraqi parliament to get legitimacy and international recognition, one of its first legislations should be calling for the unconditional withdrawal of American forces and their allies out of Iraq and replacing them with those of Arab League, Organisation of Islamic Conference and United Nations.
Ahmed Kateregga Musaazi, Kampala, Uganda

I hope that their first act is to request the end of the occupation and foreign interference in their sovereign nation by exercising their much-extolled freedom and liberty.
Frank, London, UK

Being a new government there are going to be flaws and problems. They will have to work out their differences in order for Iraq to become one nation working for a common goal. They may not ever be completely homogeneous but they will be a lot better off than they are now. We as outsiders should stand aside and respect their decisions even if it does not suit our ideology.
Tony, USA

My hope is that the new government understands that governments exist to serve the people, not the reverse.
Steve, Wall, NJ, USA

The new Iraqi parliament should imbibe all the Islamic elements and principles of governing a truly Islamic country.
Kamarudin, Malaysia