Iraq Election 2025: Only 21.4 Million Voter Cards Updated Out of 32 Million Eligible Amid Tight Security and Political Tension
Iraqis cast ballots Tuesday in a parliamentary election held under unusually heavy security and at a politically fraught moment. (ABC News)
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Security forces maintained a strong presence across the country, particularly in Baghdad’s Sadr City and other areas tied to the influential Shiite cleric Muqtada al‑Sadr. Armored vehicles and military‐style checkpoints were common, reflecting concerns about unrest or disruptions. (ABC News)
Although roughly 32 million Iraqis were eligible to vote, only about 21.4 million updated their registration and acquired voter cards ahead of the election — a drop from the about 24 million who did so in 2021. (ABC News)
Turnout appeared thin early in the day, with many polling stations reporting light arrival of voters. Officials have indicated that preliminary results may be released on Wednesday.
The stakes of the election are high: the outcome will influence whether Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al‑Sudani can secure a second term in office—an extended tenure that only one leader has achieved since 2003.
Observers note that many Iraqis appear disconnected from the process, questioning whether meaningful change can result from the vote. At the same time, regional and international dynamics—especially pressures from the U.S. and Iran—loom large over the electoral environment.
In short: Iraq held a major parliamentary election amid tight security, low registration rates, subdued turnout and heavy political and regional undercurrents.
