Nothing should derail political process in Iraq

The recent bombings in Iraq are disappointing as much as tragic as it takes the country back on to the trail of large-scale violence. It is of immense urgency that violence is not allowed to spiral any further.

Baghdad's latest series of coordinated attacks took place near a number of government sites. The severity of the attacks is shown in the aftermath as the four car bombs killed no less than 127 and injured at least 400. This is by all measures one of the deadliest attacks seen within a month.

This recent development is an indication of a very serious development in Iraq. For one thing, it is a sign of the insurgents' ability to infiltrate, target and hit high-profile targets in the city. In addition, the very fact that the targets are government entities questions the Iraqi forces' level of readiness in providing adequate security within the city. This is especially risky given the fact that these forces are being prepared to take over the role of guaranteeing security from the US forces.

Looking at the overall picture, the rate and scale of violence has dropped in the past year, even though the attacks in general have not stopped completely. The recent bombings come as a reminder that the security level has yet to be ensured.

Yet what is more important here is the timing of the attacks as they come right after the Iraqi parliament had agreed on ending a serious political impasse that placed the country's future in jeopardy. Iraqi officials have set a date in March for the new elections.

If the attacks are meant to shake confidence and resolve regarding the country's future, it is the role of the lawmakers and politicians to ensure that nothing derails the political process.