Baghdad – Iraq’s Judiciary in Crisis—this is the reality facing the country after an unprecedented wave of judicial resignations. The resignation of nine Federal Supreme Court judges has thrown Iraq into a deep constitutional and political storm.
Among those who stepped down were all six permanent court members. Their departure has stalled the country’s highest legal body. As a result, Iraq’s ability to certify elections or uphold legal rulings now hangs in the balance.
The root of this crisis is tied to the controversial annulment of the Khor Abdullah maritime agreement with Kuwait. According to insiders, growing political interference sparked the walkout. Several judges reportedly felt pressure from executive leaders.
A senior judicial official confirmed the seriousness of the situation. “The judiciary’s ability to function is now in question,” the official said. He warned of widespread legal consequences if the crisis remains unresolved.
Iraq’s judiciary in crisis also impacts the scheduled parliamentary elections. Without the Supreme Court’s ratification, the November 11 vote cannot legally move forward. Iraq may face a constitutional vacuum if the issue drags on.
However, some lawmakers are sounding alarms. Amer Abduljabbar, a parliamentarian and head of the Al-Faw Zakho Gathering, accused top officials of violating constitutional boundaries. He criticized the executive’s appeal against the court’s decision.
“It is alarming that the President and Prime Minister are contesting a court ruling—not Parliament,” Abduljabbar said. He revealed that 96 lawmakers have signed a petition. Their demand: the executive must withdraw its legal challenge immediately.
Abduljabbar also raised suspicions of outside involvement. He claimed Kuwait is applying diplomatic pressure via the Gulf Cooperation Council and Russia. “The coordination and timing raise serious questions,” he warned.
Grassroots organizations in Basra are also speaking out. Maritime unions and tribal leaders issued a unified statement defending judicial independence. “We reject any threat to Iraq’s sovereignty over Khor Abdullah,” they declared.
On September 4, 2023, the Federal Supreme Court ruled against Law No. 42 of 2013. The court found the maritime agreement unconstitutional. It failed to pass with the required two-thirds majority under Article 61/4 of Iraq’s constitution.
While Iraq’s presidency and cabinet insist the deal focused only on maritime navigation, legal experts disagree. They believe the ruling confirmed Iraq’s authority beyond border marker 162. It also stressed the need for proper legislative procedure.
Iraq’s judiciary in crisis is no longer a theoretical concern—it is a national emergency. Without immediate reform and action, Iraq risks losing both legal integrity and public trust.
