Iraq's first parliamentary election since the fall of Islamic State struck a surprising blow to current prime minister Haider al-Abadi. The al-Sairoon coalition, headed by Shia nationalist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, finished in first place, ahead of the Iranian-backed al-Fatah Alliance, with Abadi's Nasr bloc third. A low turnout and political apathy helped boost populist parties frustrated with corruption and a struggling economy. Sadr had been outspoken in his opposition to Iranian influence in the country and notably omitted the Fatah Alliance when discussing options on forming a new government. The election result will have no immediate effect on oil production and exports, but talks between Baghdad and Irbil to resolve energy policy differences will be on hold until a new government emerges.
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