Iraqi cabinet discusses changes to US security deal

Baghdad: Iraq's cabinet discussed changes to a security pact with the United States on Tuesday, as political opposition to the pact grows in Baghdad.

Government spokesman Ali Al Dabbagh said ministers were considering proposed amendments to the pact, which would allow US troops to remain in the country until 2011.

After the meeting Prime Minister Nuri Al Maliki "will be authorized to put forward the amendments, through his negotiating team, to the American side," Dabbagh said.

Lawmakers loyal to anti-American cleric Moqtada Al Sadr pledge to vote against the pact.

As the clock ticks, US officials have begun to issue warnings about what may occur if there is no security deal, extension of the UN mandate, or alternative in place.