Unsettling uncertainty looms over Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections on Oct. 10. Observers and analysts predict a record–low turnout, paving the way for a parliament packed with ideological hardliners and armed political factions whose agendas and loyalties to foreign interests are at odds with Iraqi sovereignty. Significant parliamentary gains would embolden armed groups and potentially further shield them from accountability.

Hoping to unseat the corrupt ruling political class, protesters took to the streets of Iraq in Oct. 2019, shaking the establishment to its core. Key demands included the resignation of Adil Abdul Mahdi as prime minister and early parliamentary elections....