Story perspectives

Iraq's Shi'ite Blocs Nominate Bassem al-Badry for PM

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Iraq's main Shi'ite blocs nominated Bassem al-Badry, head of Iraq's Commission for Accountability and Justice, for prime minister.
The nomination occurred at a meeting on April 20, according to two Shi'ite officials.
Two other officials disputed the claim, saying discussions were still ongoing.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Wednesday.
The nomination would replace Nouri al-Maliki, while U.S. President Donald Trump opposed his return and threatened to withdraw support.

History

Historical Context

Iraq's political turmoil intensified after the 2014 rise of ISIS, which captured major cities like Mosul and Tikrit. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's sectarian policies, particularly against Sunnis, fueled discontent and insurgency, leading to his resignation in August 2014. The U.S. responded with over $1.6 billion in military aid, highlighting the fragile state of Iraqi governance and ongoing sectarian tensions.

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Story summary

Iraq's main Shi'ite blocs nominated Bassem al-Badry, head of Iraq's Commission for Accountability and Justice, for prime minister.
The nomination occurred at a meeting on April 20, according to two Shi'ite officials.
Two other officials disputed the claim, saying discussions were still ongoing.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Wednesday.
The nomination would replace Nouri al-Maliki, while U.S. President Donald Trump opposed his return and threatened to withdraw support.

1 / 2