TROUBLE AHEAD

Maliki Rejects Unity Government Push

Calls it a “coup.”

Despite pressure from the U.S., Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is rejecting a unity government that represents all of Iraq’s ethnic and religious groups. Maliki declared in a speech Wednesday that the push is a “coup against the constitution and an attempt to end the democratic experience.” The U.S. has told Maliki he needs to work to have a more inclusive government. Maliki has been accused of using the government to strengthen the Shia majority at the expense of Sunnis and Kurds. Meanwhile, ISIS is surrounding the Balad air force base in an attempt to acquire its own air force. The New York Times reports that Iran is sending in drones, military equipment, and supplies to help Maliki against the Sunni insurgents.