Former Iraqi premier stresses Iraqi sovereignty in foreign policy vision

Nouri al-Maliki, the nominee for Iraqi prime minister put forward by the Shiite Coordination Framework coalition, has articulated a foreign policy vision centered on establishing "balanced" partnerships while firmly rejecting external interference in Baghdad's domestic politics. The former premier's comments come amidst a sensitive government formation process and follow a direct call from a U.S. president for Iraqis to block his candidacy.

A Vision of Balanced Relations

In statements reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), al-Maliki stated that Iraq seeks to build "balanced political, economic, and security relations with all regional countries and major powers." He emphasized that these partnerships would be based on mutual interest and respect, explicitly distancing them from any external meddling in Iraqi affairs. This approach highlights Iraq's delicate position as a nation seeking to maintain workable ties with neighboring states like Türkiye and Iran, as well as global powers, without being drawn into regional conflicts.

Sovereignty and Democratic Choice as Red Lines

Al-Maliki strongly defended Iraq's right to independent decision-making. "We respect our national will and our independent decision, and we expect others to respect this decision," he stated. He framed Iraq's post-2003 political life, despite a "violent birth," as an achievement where democratic values and peaceful power transfers have taken root. He asserted that choosing the nation's leadership is a sovereign matter and a right the Iraqi people "will not abandon."

Rejecting External Pressure

The politician's statements served as a direct rebuttal to recent international pressure. Earlier this week, former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly called on Iraq not to appoint al-Maliki as prime minister. Al-Maliki categorically rejected this call, describing it as "blatant interference" in Iraq's internal affairs and reaffirming his candidacy. This firm stance underscores a broader sentiment in Iraqi politics against foreign dictates, especially concerning the critical process of government formation. The Coordination Framework, a key political bloc, nominated al-Maliki on January 24 following a majority vote.