Iraqi President tasks Al-Zaidi with forming government after Al-Sudani and Al-Maliki withdraw

In a significant political development, Iraq's President Nizar Amedi has officially appointed Ali al-Zaidi to form the country's new government. This move comes after the withdrawal of both the outgoing Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani and influential former premier Nuri al-Maliki from the running. The decision, announced via a message on X, fulfills a constitutional mandate and aims to break the prolonged political deadlock that has plagued Iraq since the November 2025 parliamentary elections.

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In compliance with our constitutional responsibilities, we have entrusted the candidate of the largest parliamentary bloc - 'Coordination Framework' - Ali Al Zaidi, with the formation of the new government. With this, we have completed the third stage of the constitutional mandate, which could not be delayed.

The 'Coordination Framework,' the largest parliamentary bloc, put forward Al-Zaidi as its candidate. President Amedi formally entrusted him with the task in a ceremony at the Baghdad Palace, emphasizing the paramount importance of Iraq's national interests. He issued a direct appeal to all political forces to lend their full support and cooperation to the designated prime minister, thereby accelerating the formation of a government capable of addressing the nation's pressing demands.

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Iraq's interests are paramount.

Al-Zaidi expressed his gratitude for the president's commitment to completing the constitutional process within the stipulated timeframe. He pledged to work collaboratively with all political factions to establish a government that genuinely reflects the aspirations of the Iraqi citizenry. The withdrawal of al-Sudani and al-Maliki was lauded by the 'Coordination Framework' as a "responsible and historic stance," prioritizing national interests over personal ambitions and facilitating the selection of a suitable candidate.

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expressed his gratitude to the president for his commitment to completing this process within the constitutional deadline and reaffirmed his determination to work with all political forces to form a government that responds to the demands of the citizens.

This development is particularly noteworthy given the complex political landscape and external pressures influencing Iraqi politics. The candidacies of figures like al-Maliki have often been contentious, partly due to his past tenure and alleged ties to Iran, which have drawn criticism from the United States. The appointment of Al-Zaidi, a less prominent figure, may signal an attempt to navigate these sensitivities and forge a path toward a more stable government, though the challenges of sectarian power-sharing and coalition-building remain substantial.

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This step underscores their commitment to the supreme national interests, facilitates overcoming the political blockade, and allows the 'Coordination Framework' to select a candidate who meets the necessary requirements for the position of prime minister.