Bush-Al-Maliki 'Principles' Draw Iraqi Fire

THE declaration of principles envisioning an extension of US occupation forces presence in Iraq has incited strong negative domestic reactions.

Thje Al-Sadr bloc expressed deep unwillingness to consent to the primary clauses of the agreement between US President Georges W. Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki, saying it would lead to a long-term civilian occupation. The Bush-Maliki deal lays the framework for a years-long US presence in Iraq.

Sadrist senior official Fallah Chanchal said, "The agreement contradicts the bloc's endeavors to pullout occupying US forces from Iraq as soon as possible. The agreement negates the pact that has been discussed before the political council for national security days ago."

Similarly, Accordance Front spokesman, Salim Abdullah, revealed that Iraqi Vice President Tariq Al-Hashemi has sent remarks to the US Embassy about the declaration of principles pact noting observations of fundamental reserve on the security part of the principles.

Also the Iraqi Front for National Dialogue leader Saleh Motlaq, voiced the same position towards the agreement. He criticized the absence of a timetable for a US troop pullout in the short term, saying it negates the calls of many political power centers in the country.