The Iraqi Council of Representatives has successfully elected Mahmud Mashhadani as its new Speaker, ending nearly a year-long political deadlock that has stalled key government functions. Mashhadani's election marks a pivotal moment for Iraq’s political landscape, following a series of failed attempts to secure leadership in the Council.

On Thursday, Mashhadani, representing the Sunni-majority Progress Party, won with a decisive 182 votes in the second round of parliamentary voting. His opponent, Salem Al-Issawi, affiliated with the Sunni Azm and Sovereignty Alliances, received just 43 votes.

The election followed an intense first round, during which no candidate reached the required majority. In the initial vote, Mashhadani received 153 votes, while Al-Issawi garnered 95, and independent candidate Amer Abdul Jabbar obtained 9 votes. Additionally, 15 ballots were declared invalid. The deadlock persisted until the afternoon, when the Council held a second vote, culminating in Mashhadani’s victory.

The speaker position had remained vacant since November 14, 2023, following a Federal Court ruling that nullified the parliamentary memberships of Mohammed al-Halbousi and Laith al-Dulaimi amid internal conflicts. This ruling also effectively removed al-Halbousi from his role as Speaker, leaving a significant leadership void within the Council.

Mashhadani, at 76, assumes the role during a critical time, with Iraq’s parliament facing numerous challenges. His election signals a renewed effort to resolve the gridlock and underscores the need for stable leadership as Iraq navigates political and socio-economic challenges.