Iraq has named businessman Ali al-Zaidi as its new prime minister-designate, following his endorsement by the country’s dominant Shiite political alliance.
The announcement was made after President Nizar Amede formally tasked Zaidi with forming a new government, citing his backing by the largest parliamentary bloc.
The decision came after the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shiite factions with varying ties to Iran, shifted its support to Zaidi. The bloc had initially backed former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki, a powerful political figure with longstanding influence.
However, the political landscape changed after U.S. President Donald Trump warned earlier this year that Washington could withdraw support for Iraq if Maliki returned to office, citing concerns over his close ties to Iran.
Following the development, the Coordination Framework commended Maliki and caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for stepping aside in what it described as a “historic and responsible” move to ensure political stability.
Iraq has long balanced competing influences from Iran and the United States, making leadership decisions particularly sensitive within the region’s geopolitical landscape.
Under Iraq’s political system, endorsement by the largest Shiite bloc typically guarantees a candidate’s path to premiership through presidential nomination. However, recent external pressures triggered intense negotiations among political leaders before consensus was reached.
Zaidi, widely viewed as a compromise candidate, is relatively unknown in political circles. A businessman and banker, he also owns a television channel but has never previously held public office.
His nomination is expected to usher in a new phase of government formation as Iraq navigates internal political dynamics and external geopolitical pressures.
