Jaina Ruff

An election boycott by the movement led by Shia leader Muqtada al-Sadr led to relatively low turnout.

As in other elections, Iran-backed parties dominated the political scene in central and south Iraq.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who came to power with support from Iran-backed parties, but also maintains good relations with the U.S., is hoping for a second term.

Initial results are expected Wednesday.

But because Iraq's political scene is so fragmented, it will likely take weeks or even months of backroom negotiations to determine which coalition has the most support and the right to choose the president and prime minister.

Jaina Ruff reporting.