In Iraq, protests continue against the proposed security pact that would allow US forces to stay in Iraq for at least three more years. On Thursday, lawmakers with the Sadr bloc held a sit-in against the current proposals.

Fawzi Akram: “It is a clear message to the Iraqi government, US government, the occupation and to all the honest and patriotic people who work for the sake of Iraq’s unity, land, people, flag and sovereignty, those who work for what is right and just, to join us and make Iraq’s sovereignty and national interest above all.”

The draft calls for a full US withdrawal by 2012, but leaves open the possibility of a later date. US soldiers would also retain immunity from prosecution for all actions except those committed “off-duty” and not in combat. Critics have dismissed the provision, because US troops seldom leave their bases in Iraq unless on authorized missions.