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Spy claims irk Iraqi officials

BAGHDAD - The Iraqi government reacted sharply Friday to published allegations that the U.S. spied on Iraq's prime minister, warning that future ties with the United States could be in jeopardy if the claims are true.

The allegations appear in a new book, "The War Within: A Secret White House History, 2006-2008," by journalist Bob Woodward, who writes that the United States spied extensively on Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, his staff and other government officials.

The report emerged as the U.S. and Iraqis are in delicate negotiations over the future of American troops in Iraq. Those talks have already extended past their July 31 deadline and have drawn sharp criticism from Iraqis who want an end to the U.S. presence.

Critics may use the allegation to pressure Iraqi officials to hold out for the most favorable terms or not to sign a deal.

Iraqi spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh said Baghdad will raise the allegations and ask the U.S. for an explanation   Read Full Article...