Shafaq News / A reliable political source revealed on Wednesday the main reason for the visit of the United States Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Barbara Leaf, to Iraq.

The source told Shafaq News agency that Leaf conveyed an international warning to Iraqi officials, amid the exacerbating crisis the country is experiencing, expressing concern over the possibility that it turns into an armed conflict.

During the meetings she held in Iraq, Leaf stressed the need to address the situation as soon as possible, as well as prevent any escalation that might take place in the Green Zone, noting that if this happens, the international community will intervene, especially Washington, to prevent the collapse of the Iraqi system, according to the source.

She also emphasized the importance of not "excluding" the Sadrist movement from the political process, and trying, through dialogue, to meet its demands.