The powerful Shia Muslim leader’s move to leave politics sparked violent protests; he could yet make a comeback
BAGHDAD—Moqtada al-Sadr, the Islamic cleric whose withdrawal from public life triggered deadly clashes in the Iraqi capital this week, condemned his supporters for attacking security forces and called on them to leave the city’s Green Zone.
In a televised speech, Mr. Sadr appeared angry and apologized for the behavior of his followers, known as Sadrists, who on Monday attacked Iraqi security forces defending the area of Baghdad that houses government buildings and embassies. The nightlong battle left 22 people dead and more than 100 injured, Iraqi authorities said.