President Donald Trump has warned that the United States would stop assisting Iraq if Nouri al‑Maliki is chosen as the country’s next prime minister. Trump made the remarks after Maliki was nominated by a coalition of Shiite-led parties known as the Coordination Framework.
Trump said on his social media platform that Maliki would be a “very bad choice” for Iraq. He added that during Maliki’s previous tenure, the country suffered from poverty, political instability, and widespread chaos. Trump said Iraq would have “zero chance” of success without strong US support if Maliki comes to power.
Maliki led Iraq from 2006 to 2014. His leadership was marked by sectarian violence and political conflict between Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish groups. Analysts say his aggressive approach to opponents and centralization of power contributed to the rise of extremist groups like the Islamic State, which seized large areas of the country during his administration.
The Coordination Framework nominated Maliki as its prime minister candidate over the weekend. In Iraq’s political system, the president, who holds mostly ceremonial power, usually formalizes the appointment. Parliament also must approve key positions, but voting has been delayed this week due to disagreements among political factions.
Washington is concerned about Maliki’s close ties to Iran and Iran-linked groups. US officials fear that his government could deepen Tehran’s influence in Iraq, potentially undermining Iraq’s sovereignty and national interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with the current Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, expressing worry about Maliki’s Iran connections and emphasizing that Iraq’s government should prioritize Iraqi interests.
Trump’s warning represents a rare direct intervention in Iraq’s political process. It signals that the United States may reconsider security, military, and economic support for Baghdad if Maliki takes office. US military and diplomatic support remains critical to Iraq, including cooperation on counterterrorism and oil revenue management. Cutting support could weaken Iraq’s ability to maintain stability in a volatile region.
Maliki’s nomination has sparked debate in Iraq. Supporters argue his experience could stabilize the country amid ongoing political and economic challenges. Critics warn that his leadership style, history of centralizing power, and links to Iran could escalate tensions domestically and regionally.
