(Reuters) -- Abadi, who led the country in the four-year war against Isis, said he will seek to form a cross-sectarian block called ''the victory alliance'' to contest the parliamentary elections, with candidates from other communities.

Abadi is credited for quickly rebuilding the army and defeating Isis in its main Iraqi stronghold, Mosul, last July.

The parliament is yet to approve the May 12 date for the elections.

(Photo: EPA)