DHAKA: Iraqi state TV says a top court has ruled that PM Nouri Maliki’s bloc is the largest in parliament, in a boost to his bid to stay on for a third term.

The decision would mean the president, who Maliki criticised for not intervening when parliament failed to appoint him, should ask him to remain.

But Arab media cast doubt on the report, carrying an apparent statement by the court denying any decision, reports the BBC.

Maliki faces calls to step down amid a jihadist insurgency in the north.

Critics say Maliki, a Shia, has precipitated the current crisis through sectarian policies. Sunnis, Kurds and even fellow Shia have urged him to go.

Pro-Maliki security forces took to the streets of Baghdad on Sunday night.

US Secretary of State John Kerry called on the Iraqi PM not to increase tensions, and warned against use of force by political factions.

‘The government formation process is critical in terms of sustaining stability and calm in Iraq, and our hope is that Mr Maliki will not stir those waters,’ he said during a visit to Australia.

Earlier the US, which has urged Iraq to form an inclusive government, issued a statement backing Masum.

BDST: 1700 HRS, AUG 11, 2014