Anbar tribes key to security, political backing ahead of Iraq's October vote

Following the introduction of a new electoral law and with many of the region’s population still looking more toward their tribes for protection than the central government, Iraq’s Sunni-dominant Anbar province is likely to be highly affected by tribal relations and figures in the October elections.
Iraqis attend a conference gathering Shiite and Sunni tribal leaders and clerics on November 8, 2014, in the capital, Baghdad, to discuss support to Sunni tribes in their fight against the Islamist State (IS) in Anbar province, west of Baghdad.
Iraqis attend a conference gathering Shiite and Sunni tribal leaders and clerics on November 8, 2014, in the capital, Baghdad, to discuss support to Sunni tribes in their fight against the Islamist State (IS) in Anbar province, west of Baghdad. - AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP via Getty Images
Shelly Kittleson.jpg
Shelly Kittleson
@shellykittleson

AL-OBEIDI, Iraq — Sheikh Sabah’s face showed signs of weariness that became more marked as the evening wore on, as members of his tribe arrived to request assistance.

Tribal leaders serve as mediators and advocates for their tribal brethren toward other tribes, security forces and the government. In the western part of Iraq’s westernmost province, they are often the first port of call for those in need.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.

Videos

See more