Iraqi deputies voice concern over a US conspiracy to stage a coup in a bid to force Iraqi officials into signing a controversial security pact.

The coup aims to disturb security in the country and put authorities under pressure to sign the US-proposed deal, members of the Iraqi Parliament said, IRNA reported

The United States wants the so-called Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed before the end of US President George W. Bush's term in office.

However, the pact has so far met with fierce opposition by the majority of lawmakers, whose approval is necessary for a final agreement.

Prior to sending the deal to the Parliament for approval, Iraqi government urged the US make some necessary amendments to the terms of the pact, but Washington has failed to make such amendments.

Apart from parliament approval the deal must be endorsed by the Iraqi cabinet and the Presidency Council.

In a Tuesday cabinet meeting, Iraqi ministers refused to support the latest draft of the deal and called for further amendments.

Among the disputed issues on the agreement is that the pact would grant US forces immunity from prosecution in Iraqi courts. However, only soldiers that commit crimes inside the agreed facilities and areas owned by the government of Iraq - but used by US forces - will be granted immunity.

Iraqi deputies also say there are concerns over the lack of a guaranteed date for US forces to withdraw after their UN mandate expires in December 2008.

MSH/MMN