Iraqi lawmakers have delayed voting on a controversial bill imposing harsh penalties for same-sex relations, including the death penalty or life imprisonment. The measure, part of an amendment to an anti-prostitution law, stirred concerns among Western diplomats over the potential fallout on Iraq's political and economic ties if enacted. The proposed law targets not only same-sex relations but also the promotion of homosexuality, with violators facing at least seven years in prison. Despite Iraq's current lack of explicit criminalization of gay sex, vague morality clauses have been wielded against the LGBTQ+ community. Diplomats from Western countries have urged against passing the bill, citing human rights and diplomatic complications amid Iraq's efforts to rebuild international relations. #Queer Up The World View