Perspective: A Maliki-Sadr Breakup?

Has the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki decided to sever its alliance with Moqtada al-Sadr? It sure sounds like it if you listen to top Maliki adviser Sadiq al-Rikabi criticize Sadr: "You cannot be in the government and working against the government at the same time. You cannot be a part of the government while breaking the law. If you're going to be a part of the government, you should respect the institutions of the government."

Among Maliki's major political assets were his ties to Moqtada al-Sadr. The argument was that Maliki could help moderate the fiery Shi'ite militia leader. And so, when sectarian violence began escalating dramatically in February 2006, U.S. forces repeatedly held back from a major confrontation with the Madhi Army at Maliki's behest. But there has been no sign of moderation on Sadr's part.

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