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Trump Invites Iraq PM-Designate Zaidi to Washington for Strategic Talks

5/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump invited Ali al-Zaidi to Washington after his nomination as Iraq’s prime-minister-designate.
The Coordination Framework, a Shi’ite bloc controlling 185 of Iraq’s 329 parliamentary seats, nominated Zaidi on Monday.
Zaidi owns the Taawon Hypermarket chain, Al-Awees holding and Dijlah TV, and is not subject to U.S. sanctions.
U.S. officials said the call reviewed strategic ties and reaffirmed joint efforts for regional stability amid pressure on Iran-backed militias.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump invited Ali al-Zaidi to Washington after his nomination as Iraq’s prime-minister-designate.
The Coordination Framework, a Shi’ite bloc controlling 185 of Iraq’s 329 parliamentary seats, nominated Zaidi on Monday.
Zaidi owns the Taawon Hypermarket chain, Al-Awees holding and Dijlah TV, and is not subject to U.S. sanctions.
U.S. officials said the call reviewed strategic ties and reaffirmed joint efforts for regional stability amid pressure on Iran-backed militias.