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Key Players in Iraq A handful of Iraqis may determine Iraq's future. Some of them are people whom the United States is depending on to help fix problems; others are ones the Americans hope don't make things worse. Anne Garrels helps navigate the way through the complexities of Iraqi politics and politicians.
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Key Players in Iraq

A look at a handful of Iraqis who may determine Iraq's future.

Autonomy, Oil Money Underlie Kurdish Goals in Iraq

Iraq's Kurdish leaders, once fierce rivals, have been working together to achieve autonomy for their oil-rich northern region. But, for now, Jalal Talabani and Massoud Barzani realize they must work under a central Iraqi government.

Autonomy, Oil Money Underlie Kurdish Goals in Iraq

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In the Minority, Iraq's Sunnis Lack Clear Leadership

Of all the major factions in Iraq, the Sunni minority is remarkable for its lack of an obvious leader. The Sunnis are split between those who are part of the political process and those who refuse to enter the process.

In the Minority, Iraq's Sunnis Lack Clear Leadership

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Sectarian Violence Erodes Sistani's Influence in Iraq

Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani is the leading Shiite religious figure in Iraq. But many Shiites are becoming frustrated with his lack of direct engagement in politics, and his influence has been eroded by continuing sectarian violence.

Sectarian Violence Erodes Sistani's Influence in Iraq

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Maliki's Ties to Sadr Complicate U.S. Mission in Iraq

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki came to power as a compromise candidate with the help of Muqtada al-Sadr, the radical anti-American cleric whose followers are behind much of the sectarian violence that continues to plague Iraq.

Maliki's Ties to Sadr Complicate U.S. Mission in Iraq

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Al-Sadr: A Complex Figure in the Iraqi Puzzle

The radical anti-American Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr is one of the most powerful people in Iraq, and one of the hardest to understand. He favors a unified Iraq, but his followers have caused the sectarian violence that has plunged the country into chaos.

Al-Sadr: A Complex Figure in the Iraqi Puzzle

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