Trump Endorses Ali al-Zaidi as Iraq’s Prime Minister-Designate, Signaling Renewed US-Iraq Ties

On 30 April 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Ali al-Zaidi on his nomination as Iraq’s next prime minister, invited him to Washington after a government is formed, and said he expects a “strong, vibrant, and highly productive” bilateral relationship.

Trump congratulates Iraqi PM-designate, invites him to Washington after gov't formationTrump backs al-Zaidi's candidacy for Iraqi prime ministerUsNews and World ReportAl Monitor

The Shiite Coordination Framework, Iraq’s largest bloc with 185 of 329 seats, nominated Ali al-Zaidi after a deadlock. In January, President Donald Trump warned he would pull U.S. support if former premier Nouri al-Maliki were appointed, which helped shift the bloc. The framework chose Zaidi on 27 April, and Trump posted his congratulatory message and called on 30 April.

Al MonitorUsNews and World ReportTrump congratulates Iraqi PM-designate, invites him to Washington after gov't formationThe Straits Times

Washington’s endorsement shows a desire to shape Iraq’s government and to counter Iran-aligned militias that have attacked U.S. forces. Bilateral trade hit $9 billion in 2024, with crude oil the top Iraqi export and cars the main U.S. export. About 2,000 U.S. troops remain in Iraq, and the United States halted roughly $500 million in dollar shipments to pressure Baghdad over militia activity.

Al Monitor

Trump’s Truth Social post said, “We wish him success as he works to form a Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq,” and added, “We look forward to a strong, vibrant, and productive relationship between Iraq and United States.” The Iraqi office confirmed the call, noted discussion of ties, and reiterated invitation to Washington after a cabinet is approved.

UsNews and World ReportThe Straits TimesTrump congratulates Iraqi PM-designate, invites him to Washington after gov't formationTrump backs al-Zaidi's candidacy for Iraqi prime minister

Observers see U.S. pressure that displaced former premier Nouri al-Maliki as interference in Iraq’s politics. The Coordination Framework includes Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a group designated a terrorist organization by Washington, raising concerns about the new cabinet. Zaidi and his Al-Janoob Islamic Bank are not sanctioned, though the bank faced dollar-transaction limits in 2024.

Al Monitor

• “We wish him success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States (Truth Social)

Trump congratulates Iraqi PM-designate, invites him to Washington after gov't formation

• “We look forward to a strong, vibrant, and highly productive new relationship between Iraq and the United States.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States (Truth Social)

The Straits Times

• “This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nations - Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before,” — Donald Trump, President of the United States (Truth Social)

Trump congratulates Iraqi PM-designate, invites him to Washington after gov't formation

• “Donald Trump, who extended his congratulations on the occasion of my official designation to form the new government.” — Ali al-Zaidi, Prime Minister-designate of Iraq (X)

Al Monitor

Zaidi must secure two-thirds parliamentary support to form a cabinet. Afterward, a Washington visit is expected, where security cooperation, trade, and the handling of Iran-backed militias will be discussed. U.S. officials will monitor the new government’s approach to militia disarmament and may adjust financial pressures accordingly.

Al Monitor