Story perspectives

Trump Warns Iraq Against Maliki's Return to Power

1/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Nouri al-Maliki, former Iraqi prime minister, has been nominated by the largest Shia bloc to return to power.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that support for Iraq will end if Maliki is reinstated, citing his term as chaotic and impoverished.
U.S. representatives said Iraq's leadership choice is its own.
The United States will act in its interests regarding the new government.
Al-Maliki remains influential as a figure in the Shia Islamist Dawa Party.

History

Historical Context

Nouri al-Maliki became Iraq's Prime Minister on May 20, 2006, amid rising sectarian violence following the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. His tenure saw a 10% decline in GDP due to ongoing conflict and mismanagement. As discussions of his potential return to power arise, concerns grow over the implications for U.S.-Iraq relations and regional stability, echoing criticisms from President Donald Trump regarding his previous administration.

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Story summary

Nouri al-Maliki, former Iraqi prime minister, has been nominated by the largest Shia bloc to return to power.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that support for Iraq will end if Maliki is reinstated, citing his term as chaotic and impoverished.
U.S. representatives said Iraq's leadership choice is its own.
The United States will act in its interests regarding the new government.
Al-Maliki remains influential as a figure in the Shia Islamist Dawa Party.

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