Claim: The Council of Representatives elects the President of Iraq.

The President of Iraq is the head of state of Iraq and `` safeguards the commitment to the Constitution and the preservation of Iraq 's independence , sovereignty , unity , the security of its territories in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution '' . The President is elected by the Council of Representatives by a two-thirds majority , and is limited to two four-year terms . The President is responsible for ratifying treaties and laws passed by the Council of Representatives , issues pardons on the recommendation of the Prime Minister , and performs the `` duty of the Higher Command of the armed forces for ceremonial and honorary purposes '' .