US believes Iraq accord imminent

US OFFICIALS were confident yesterday they were close to an agreement on Iraq’s future as they prepared to host a summit of world powers aimed at healing rifts left by last year’s invasion.

Meanwhile, in Iraq, two Iraqis were killed in an explosion in Kufa, as new prime minister Iyad Allawi said nine militia groups had agreed to disband.

“By doing this, we reward their heroism and sacrifices, while making Iraq stronger and eliminating armed forces outside of government control,” said Allawi.