The Iraqi Cabinet canceled a meeting to review the U.S.-Iraqi security pact Sunday, saying proposals for amendments to an earlier draft were still being submitted, a government adviser said. Sadiq al-Rikabi said Sunday's extraordinary meeting was canceled because "proposals are still arriving." The Cabinet routinely meets on Tuesdays.
The government planned to send new proposals to the Americans for changes in the draft. But the draft has faced opposition from a number of critics who consider the deal an infringement on national sovereignty.
Iraq's Cabinet decided last week to ask for changes after key Shiite lawmakers warned the deal stands little chance of approval in its current form. The decision also raised doubts that the agreement can be ratified before a new American president is elected Nov. 4.
If the Iraqi parliament fails to approve the draft before the U.N. mandate expires Dec. 31, there would be no legal basis for the U.S.-led military mission.
© 2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
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