March 16th Morning Readbook

Iraqi PM pulls ahead of poll rivals 




Iran praises Iraq election as Shi'ite ally leads
Iran congratulated Iraqis on Tuesday over an election that is likely to keep a bloc led by its Shi'ite ally, Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, in power after a campaign in which Tehran's influence was a divisive issue.


Iraq's Arab neighbors wary of Shi'ite sway after vote
Iraq's Arab neighbors fear a split Iraqi election could further marginalize minority Sunnis and hope any coalition government formed by the Shi'ite frontrunner will resist Iran's sway.


 US drone attack kills Pakistanis 
A suspected US drone attack in the restive northwest Pakistan has killed at least 11 people and wounded two others.


Karzai, Obama discuss prospects of Taliban talks
Afghan President Hamid Karzai discussed prospects of peace with the Taliban in a video phone conversation with President Barack Obama, Karzai's office said on Tuesday.


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