Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi arrives in Washington to boost US ties amid Iran militia tensions - analysis

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi arrived in Washington for a significant visit aimed at bolstering relations with the United States. The trip comes at a critical juncture for Iraq, which is attempting to manage the influence of Iranian-backed militias while also overseeing the withdrawal of U.S. forces involved in the anti-ISIS campaign.

Iraq finds itself positioned as a key arena in the broader geopolitical contest between the U.S. and Iran. Following U.S. airstrikes on Iran earlier in the year, Iran reportedly activated militias within Iraq, leading to numerous attacks on U.S. diplomatic sites. These groups, including Kataib Hezbollah, have been implicated in high-profile incidents such as the kidnapping of U.S. journalist Shelly Kittelson.

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Prime Minister Mr. Ali Falih Al-Zaidi received, yesterday evening Monday Baghdad time, at his residence in the US capital Washington, the US President's Special Envoy to Iraq, Mr. Tom Barrack.

During his visit, Prime Minister Zaidi is scheduled to meet with U.S. Special Envoy to Iraq, Tom Barrack. Discussions are expected to cover prospects for joint cooperation, the expansion of economic ties, and the evolving regional situation. Zaidi faces the challenge of appeasing Washington and disarming militias without provoking Tehran, a complex balancing act highlighted by analysts.

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Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi arrives in Washington this week in a true test: Can he convince the Trump administration that the partnership with Baghdad is still worth the effort? My new article on the tough equation he faces between disarming the militias and pleasing Washington without provoking Tehran.