US approves Iraqi government integrating Iran-backed factions in new cabinet

Washington has approved the inclusion of Iran-backed factions in the new Iraqi government, according to diplomatic sources. A source told AFP that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi "obtained the tacit approval of the United States" during his visit in September for the United Nations General Assembly, where he met with President Donald Trump. The main point of contention was the appointment of Laith al-Khazali, brother of Qais al-Khazali - leader of the US-designated group Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq - to a position in the cabinet. The approval came "after the Prime Minister promised to move forward with his disarmament plans and provided guarantees that these groups would not attack American interests in Iraq."