Does the video show Nouri Al-Maliki speaking fearfully to Muqtada Al-Sadr?
A video clip circulated on social media claiming to show (Nouri Al-Maliki) saying to (Muqtada Al-Sadr), "I am at your mercy, Sayyid," and Al-Sadr replying, "All these people (are here), why are you afraid?"
The Truth
The attached claim is incorrect. Upon reviewing the audio in the clip, the alleged conversation did not occur. Instead, Al-Maliki and Al-Sadr were discussing where to stand for their press interview with journalists at the time. Al-Maliki said "Where" to determine the spot, to which Al-Sadr replied "As you wish." Al-Maliki then said "You choose" to indicate Al-Sadr should pick the spot. They then moved a few steps to stand in front of the journalists for the interview.
The video was attended by several television channels at the time, such as (Al-Hurra, Al-Baghdadiya, Al-Diyar), and others. The clip dates back to Al-Sadr's official reception of Al-Maliki in 2006, where they discussed the new government program under Al-Maliki's leadership.
Thus, the phrases "I beg you, I'm with you, Sayyid" and "Why are all these people afraid" were not spoken by the individuals involved, contrary to the claim.
What do you know about Al-Sadr and Al-Maliki?
Muqtada Muhammad Al-Sadr, leader of the Shiite National Movement, and he is the son of the Shiite reference (Muhammad Muhammad Sadiq Al-Sadr).
Al-Sadr is considered one of the most prominent figures who played a fundamental role in the country due to his influence and popularity inherited from his father.
Nouri Kamil Al-Maliki, former Prime Minister of Iraq, and head of the State of Law Coalition.
Al-Sadr and Al-Maliki share many political positions, most notably the events of the "Charge of the Knights" conflict that took place in 2008 led by Al-Maliki, resulting in the killing and arrest of many followers of the "Mahdi Army" belonging to Al-Sadr, during widespread clashes that lasted several weeks.