The radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr today called the new Iraqi government to "look for the exit of the occupier", in reference to the U.S., but not necessarily by force of arms. In his first public speech since his return this week after several years of self-imposed exile in Iran, Sadr has called on his followers to give an opportunity for the new government led by Shiite Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki."I appeal to the Government: It is enough occupation in Iraq, is sufficient slavery, occupants should leave. We must keep promises," he insisted before thousands of supporters in the Shiite holy city of Najaf, about 160 miles south Baghdad. But then he qualified: "This does not mean that everyone should carry guns, weapons are only for the military.
Culturally We also resist, resistance is also peaceful resistance," said he became the symbol of the Shiite opposition in Baghdad after the invasion against Saddam Hussein in March 2003. It has also urged them to forget the differences among Iraqis to live in harmony. "If a conflict has occurred between the brothers forget that page, live together united in security and harmony, has targeted Al-Sadr.
Please apoyadme in this, the Iraqi people does not need enemies, you need friends. If you are united you and you support each other, the people of Iraq will be united. " The founder of the militia known as the Mahdi Army, which strongly opposed the Iraqi government, but later renounced violence, has called for support for the new Executive.
"It has formed an Iraqi government and all ministers is to serve the people, serving people and security. All of us will support the Government to assist and serve the Iraqi people," said the priest, who last January 5 returned to Najaf, his hometown after spending the last three years in Iran, where he traveled to continue his religious studies and gain the power to issue fatwas (Islamic edicts).
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