Iraq Holds Sixth Parliamentary Elections with Strong Turnout and Tight Security
Iraq Holds Sixth Parliamentary Elections with Strong Turnout and Tight Security
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Iraq launched its sixth parliamentary elections on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, with polling stations opening across all provinces in a peaceful and orderly atmosphere.
Millions of citizens turned out from Baghdad to Karbala, Mosul, and beyond, in what officials described as a major democratic exercise.
Voting began at 7 a.m. Baghdad time and is set to continue until 6 p.m., according to the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC). The body reported that more than 20.06 million voters had registered nationwide. Preliminary results are expected to be announced on Wednesday evening.
Earlier, special voting for security forces and displaced citizens saw an 82 percent turnout, reflecting broad engagement across different sectors of society.
Iraqis are electing 329 members to the national parliament, which will be responsible for legislation and confirming the next government.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, after casting his ballot, emphasized that the election was held in accordance with the constitution and on schedule, calling it a “celebration of Iraq’s democracy.” The President, the Chief Justice, and several senior officials also voted publicly to encourage participation.
Local media highlighted high voter turnout in Karbala, Sulaimaniya, Maysan, Anbar, and Sadr City, where citizens lined up early to cast their votes despite some calls for boycotts. Scenes of elderly voters, people with disabilities, and wheelchair users participating were widely shared on Iraqi and regional media, symbolizing civic commitment and national unity.
The government’s spokesperson said the peaceful and transparent conduct of the vote had drawn praise from regional and international observers, marking another milestone in Iraq’s democratic progress.
IHEC confirmed that no major violations had been recorded during the voting process as of midday.
