Iraq's religious authorities stay out of Shiite conflict
Iraq's top Shiite religious authority, Ayatollah Ali Sistani, remains influential in Iraqi politics, but is remaining silent at a dangerous time for the country amid high tensions among Shiite parties.
The top Shiite religious authority in the holy city of Najaf has remained silent despite increasing friction reported among Iraq's Shiite political parties. Najaf has long avoided direct involvement in politics, but it is unprecedented for religious leaders to remain silent during a period of dangerous uncertainty.
Background
