Iraq’s new parliament begins its first meeting

BAGHDAD - Iraq's new parliament started its first meeting more than six weeks after it was elected in historic polls, but the country remains without a government as rival blocs bicker over a coalition deal.

The parliament session began in the heavily fortified Green Zone compound in Baghdad shortly after 11.30am (9.30pm NZT) .

Roads were closed and traffic restricted in several parts of the city to try to protect the meeting from guerrilla attacks.

- REUTERS