Iraqis are heading to the polls for parliamentary elections amid a backdrop of relative calm, but the vote is overshadowed by the ongoing struggle between American and Iranian influence in the country. Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani, credited with recent stability and economic growth, is seeking a second term but faces opposition from former allies and the powerful Iran-backed militias. These militias, once formed to fight the Islamic State, have grown into influential political and economic players, controlling ministries and state contracts, and are now running their own electoral lists. The United States is pressuring Iraq to curb the power of these groups and reduce Iranian sway, while Iran views Iraq as a vital security partner and is determined to maintain its influence. Many Iraqis, weary of foreign interference and militia dominance, remain skeptical about the prospects for real change, with polls predicting low voter turnout.