Security Council backs Iraq election results

The UN Security Council is calling on all political parties to respect Iraq's election results and the choices of the Iraqi people. The UN's most powerful body is also urging political leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and actions.

Council members said in a statement Wednesday that they look forward to the formation of the new government "in a spirit of cooperation and respect for national unity." A coalition led by secular challenger Ayad Allawi, a Shiite who drew on deep Sunni support, narrowly eked out a two-seat lead over a bloc led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki in results released last Friday. The prime minister is challenging the results. (AP)