Iraq’s dominant parliamentary bloc, the Coordination Framework — a coalition of Shiite parties aligned with Iran — nominated al-Zaidi earlier this week after prolonged internal deliberations, as per news agency The Associated Press (AP).
The bloc had initially backed former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki but shifted course amid opposition from Washington.
Trump had openly criticised al-Maliki as being too close to Iran and warned of cutting aid if he returned to power. Despite al-Maliki’s resistance, the coalition ultimately rallied behind al-Zaidi as a consensus figure.
Iraqi President Nizar Amidi subsequently tasked him with forming the government.
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In its statement, the Coordination Framework thanked both al-Maliki and incumbent Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for stepping aside to break the impasse, as per AP.
Who is Ali al-Zaidi: Business and policy background
Al-Zaidi currently heads Al-Janoob Islamic Bank and is regarded as a political outsider with strong business and investment links.
The bank was among several restricted by Iraq’s central bank in 2024 from dollar transactions amid US pressure over alleged money flows to Iran, though neither the institution nor al-Zaidi faces US sanctions, as per AP.
Following his nomination, al-Zaidi stated that Iraq should become “a balanced country, regionally and internationally,” acknowledging the fragile political moment.
Trump’s endorsement and White House invitation
Trump personally called al-Zaidi and later posted on Truth Social, congratulating him and extending an invitation to visit Washington once a government is formed, as per AP.
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“Congratulations to Ali al-Zaidi on his Nomination to be the next Prime Minister of Iraq! We wish him success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq,” Trump wrote.
“We look forward to a strong, vibrant, and highly productive new relationship between Iraq and the United States. This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nations — Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before,” he added.
The outreach is widely seen as Washington’s endorsement of al-Zaidi after its earlier opposition to other contenders.
What are the challenges ahead for Zaidi?
Under Iraq’s constitution, al-Zaidi has 30 days to present a Cabinet that must secure at least 167 parliamentary votes.
His government will confront economic strain linked to regional conflict, disruptions in oil exports due to the Strait of Hormuz situation, and long-standing domestic issues including corruption and militia control.
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