Speaking out against the international talks Wednesday, the rebel cleric criticized Iran for its apparent unwillingness to demand the United States withdraw its forces from Iraq, Alsumaria reported.

Sadr also spoke out against the tutelage of the United States and Britain in Iraq, alleging that accepting the talks represents a capitulation to those nations.

The religious leader also said sending representatives to the talks did not actually represent legal coverage of the event.

Along similar lines, Sadr also criticized those in his nation who have supported the presence of the U.S. military in Iraq.

Alsumaria reported Sadr denounced such supportive efforts and reiterated his demand for an independent Iraq without foreign interference.