U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Washington would withdraw its support for Iraq if former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki is returned to power, citing concerns over governance, stability and regional influence.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump said he was hearing that Iraq “might make a very bad choice” by reinstalling al-Maliki as prime minister.
Trump claimed that Iraq “descended into poverty and total chaos” during al-Maliki’s time in office and warned against a repeat of that period.
“That should not be allowed to happen again,” Trump wrote. “Because of his insane policies and ideologies, if elected, the United States of America will no longer help Iraq and, if we are not there to help, Iraq has zero chance of success, prosperity, or freedom.”
Political process under way
Iraq’s parliament is due to elect a new president on 27 January, after which the president will task the prime ministerial nominee from the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a government within 15 days, according to the country’s constitution.
Al-Maliki’s potential return has reportedly gained backing from some Shia and Kurdish political figures, who argue it could accelerate the formation of a new government after months of political deadlock.
However, the prospect has sparked concern among Sunni political groups, who warn it could revive sectarian tensions and reverse earlier policy reforms.
Regional and international concerns
In Washington, the issue has intensified concerns over Iranian influence in Iraq, with U.S. officials pointing to al-Maliki’s historical ties to Tehran as a possible threat to bilateral relations and wider regional security.
Al-Maliki served as Iraq’s prime minister from 2006 to 2014, a period marked by rising sectarian violence, political instability and the emergence of Islamic State.
Trump’s comments underline the stakes surrounding Iraq’s leadership transition, as the country seeks to navigate internal divisions while balancing relations with regional and international partners.
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