https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-62713026One of Iraq's most powerful figures, who has been at the centre of a long crisis over forming a government, says he is retiring from political life.
Moqtada al-Sadr, a firebrand Shia cleric with millions of followers, announced his decision on Twitter.
Several people were reported killed in clashes after his supporters stormed the presidential palace.
Hundreds have been camped outside parliament for weeks after storming it in protest at the political deadlock.
Mr Sadr's announcement comes two days after he called for all parties and figures involved in political life following the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq to quit.
His political alliance won the most seats in last October's general election, but his MPs later resigned amid deadlock with a rival Shia bloc over the appointment of a new prime minister.
Mr Sadr said in a statement: "I had decided not to interfere in political affairs, but I now announce my final retirement and the closure of all [Sadrist] institutions." Some religious sites linked to his movement will remain open.
