In an exclusive interview with CNN, the Iraqi official demanded that the radical Shiite leader immediately disband his forces, which recently clashed with the Iraqi military.

The Iraqi prime minister applauded his country's military forces for their efforts in those violent clashes and denied reports that neighboring Iran helped bring about a cease-fire.

CNN reported Maliki has the backing of top Iraqi political leaders to bar all followers of Sadr from engaging in the Iraqi political process if the dismantling of the cleric's militia does not begin.