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Sadr is a populist. The name Sadr is beloved by the poor Shia, because of his saintly father, brutally tortured and murdered by Saddam’s regime.

This Sadr was thrust into prominence because of his family history. Many have said that he was forced in over his head, beyond his capabilities at the time. He was dependent on Iran, and often bullied by Iran, but he did participate in/lead lots of bloody attacks on Americans. Lots.

But he is Iraqi, not Iranian; and he is Arab, not Persian. These seem to be a big thing to him, and this Nationalistic opposition to foreign influence in general is popular with his base. He is growing older and more experienced. He might like to be free of Iranian overlordship.

There is actually quite a bit of Iraqi patriotism and suspicion of Iranian motives among Iraqi Shi’ites. Mixed feelings, as they are grateful for support under Saddam, and feel religious fraternity. They just know the regime enough to be wary of them.

Another tidbit from the article, Turkey was a loser:

“Turkey has no role. Sunni political parties that were backed by Turkey were destroyed after ISIS. It’s difficult for them to play any big role in Iraqi politics for the next coming four years,”