UN calls for 'urgent' solutions to Iraq political crisis

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As tensions rise in the war-scared country, the United Nations mission in Iraq urged officials to put their country first and halt a long-running political power struggle.

The oil-rich country still has no government and no new prime minister or president over ten months after the elections.

"We appeal to all actors to commit, actively engage, and agree on solutions without delay", the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) said in a statement. "Leaders must prioritize (the) national interest," it said.

On Wednesday, supporters of Muqtada Al-Sadr held the fifth day of a huge sit-in at parliament after storming it twice. 

The Sadr bloc is against the candidacy of Mohammad Shiya Al-Sudani, who was nominated for the premiership by the Coordination Framework.

Muqtada Al-Sadr's parliamentary bloc emerged from the October elections as the biggest in Parliament. However, it still does not hold a majority.

Outgoing Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhemi called for a "national discussion" to bring all parties together to negotiate and spoke with President Barham Saleh.

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According to the Iraqi News Agency, both leaders emphasized the need to "ensure security and stability" in the country.

"Meaningful dialogue among all Iraqi parties is now more urgent than ever, as recent events have demonstrated the rapid risk of escalation in this tense political climate," the UN mission warned.

On Tuesday, Al-Sadr told followers to evacuate the Iraqi parliament within 72 hours and pursue their protests in the vicinities of the premises, i.e. the building's entrance and a surrounding encampment.

"Iraq is facing an extensive list of outstanding domestic issues: it is in desperate need of economic reform, effective public service delivery as well as a federal budget -- to name a few," the UN added.

"Hence, it is past time for political stakeholders to assume their responsibilities and act in the national interest."

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Iraq is the second largest producer in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, accounting for 90% of federal revenue. But it has still not adopted its budget for 2022.

Parliament enacted an emergency funding package in June to secure gas supply and purchase grain for "food security".