Iraq Shiite pol defends Iran against US

[rodeodance]

Source: ap

Iraq Shiite pol defends Iran against US

By SAMEER N. YACOUB, Associated Press Writer 2 hours, 21 minutes ago

BAGHDAD - Iraq's most influential Shiite politician said Sunday that the U.S had not backed up claims that Iran is fueling violence here, underscoring a wide gap on the issue between Washington and the Shiite-led Baghdad government.
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A draft bill to ease curbs on ex-Saddam Hussein loyalists in government services also drew sharp criticism from Shiite lawmakers, opening old wounds at a time when the United States is pressing the Iraqis for compromise for the sake of national unity.

The Americans have long accused the Iranians of arming and training Shiite militias, including some linked to the U.S.-backed government of Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

U.S. officials have also alleged that Iran has provided weapons used to kill Americans — a charge the Iranians vehemently deny.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071125/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq;_ylt=An5bGLhSMsXLRwXQwFx4VRWs0NUE