Saying that the Region was monitoring developments “closely and with great concern,” Barzani said that the inability of the political establishment to choose a new prime minister risked Iraq’s stability.

“Enormous pressure has been mounted on President Barham Salih, contrary to the constitution and its proceedings. We reiterate that all solutions should be founded on the bases of the Iraqi charter and the lawful means,” he added.

According to NRT he also urged the parties not to “bow to political pressure,” but left its source undefined.

While noting that the major parties themselves must agree “to designate a patriotic” prime ministerial candidate, Barzani said that the “legitimate grievances of the demonstrators and the interest of the country” must also be taken into consideration.

Barzani urged support for whatever government emerges, as it undertakes a transition period before new elections.

Iraq’s political crisis has deepened over the past few days with President Salih warning that he was willing to resign rather than appoint a candidate nominated by al-Bina parliamentary bloc, who had been resoundingly rejected by protesters.

In response, a number of lawmakers and political figures accused Salih of violating the constitution by missing a constitutionally-mandated deadline to appoint a new prime ministerial candidate and stalling in the hope that the parties would choose his preferred choice.

Reporter’s code: 50101