What's happened
Iraq's Shia alliance, the Coordination Framework, reaffirmed support for Nouri al-Maliki as prime minister despite US warnings that aid will be withdrawn if he is elected. The US opposes Maliki's return due to his Iran links, while Iraqi factions emphasize sovereignty and internal decision-making. The political process faces delays amid US-Iran tensions.
What's behind the headline?
The US-Iraq political tension is at a critical juncture. The US explicitly opposes Maliki's return, citing his Iran ties and past support for sectarian policies. This interference underscores Washington's broader strategy to curb Iran's influence in Iraq, which it views as a threat to regional stability. Meanwhile, Iraq's Shia bloc, the Coordination Framework, asserts its sovereignty, emphasizing that selecting a prime minister is an internal matter. The US threats risk deepening internal divisions, potentially delaying Iraq's government formation. The upcoming parliamentary session and presidential election are pivotal; if Maliki is blocked, Iraq may face prolonged political instability. The US's leverage—through sanctions and aid withdrawal—remains significant, but it risks alienating Iraqi factions committed to sovereignty. The outcome will shape Iraq's regional alignment and its ability to balance US and Iran influences, with potential repercussions for regional stability and US interests in the Middle East.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Maliki's support from the Coordination Framework remains firm despite US warnings, emphasizing Iraq's sovereignty and internal decision-making. Reuters highlights the US's explicit threat to withdraw aid if Maliki is elected, framing it as part of Washington's effort to limit Iran's influence. The Times of Israel notes the internal divisions within Iraqi Shiite factions and the broader geopolitical implications, including US-Iran tensions. Al Jazeera underscores Maliki's rejection of US interference and the complex internal and external pressures shaping Iraq's political landscape. These contrasting perspectives reveal a nuanced picture: while Iraqi factions prioritize sovereignty, US influence remains a decisive factor, risking further instability if conflicts escalate.
How we got here
Since the 2003 US-led invasion, Iraq's politics have been heavily influenced by foreign powers, especially the US and Iran. Maliki, Iraq's only two-term prime minister, has maintained a significant political presence, supported by Iran-linked factions. The current dispute centers on Iraq's internal choice of a new prime minister, with US warnings complicating the process amid ongoing internal and external pressures.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Is Iraq's Political Deadlock Still Ongoing?
Iraq's political situation remains tense as the country's leaders struggle to form a stable government. The support for Nouri al-Maliki by the Shiite alliance, despite US opposition, raises questions about external influence and internal divisions. Many wonder what is causing this deadlock and what it means for Iraq's future stability. Below, we explore the key issues behind Iraq's ongoing political stalemate and what could happen next.
-
Are recent attacks in Niger linked to broader proxy wars?
The recent attack on a Nigerien military base has raised questions about regional stability and the involvement of external powers. With accusations against France, Benin, Ivory Coast, and support from Russia, many wonder if this conflict is part of a larger proxy war. Understanding the geopolitical landscape can help clarify whether Niger's security issues are isolated or part of a bigger strategic contest.
-
Why is Iraq's political deadlock worsening now?
Iraq's political situation is currently facing a deepening crisis, with internal factions and external powers like the US and Iran influencing the outcome. The support for Nouri al-Maliki by Iraqi factions clashes with US warnings against his return, raising questions about Iraq's sovereignty and stability. Below, we explore the key factors behind this ongoing deadlock and what it means for Iraq's future.
More on these topics
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Nouri Kamil Muhammad-Hasan al-Maliki, also known as Jawad al-Maliki or Abu Esraa, is secretary-general of the Islamic Dawa Party and was the prime minister of Iraq from 2006 to 2014 and the vice president of Iraq from 2014 to 2015 and 2016 to 2018.
-
Iraq, officially the Republic of Iraq, is a country in Western Asia, bordered by Turkey to the north, Iran to the east, Kuwait to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, Jordan to the southwest and Syria to the west.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.