Trump warns US will withdraw support if Iraq elects al-Maliki

US President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw American support from Iraq if the country's political process returns former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to power. The warning adds a layer of external pressure as Iraqi politicians negotiate the formation of a new government.

A direct warning on social media

Trump delivered the message on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday, stating, "I’m hearing that the Great Country of Iraq might make a very bad choice by reinstalling Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister." He claimed Iraq "descended into poverty and total chaos" during al-Maliki's previous term, adding that if elected, "the United States of America will no longer help Iraq."

The political context in Iraq

The statement comes as Iraq's parliament prepares to elect a new president on January 27, a key step before nominating a prime minister. While al-Maliki's candidacy has garnered some support from Shia and Kurdish factions eager for a swift government formation, it has alarmed Sunni groups and raised concerns about a return to sectarian policies. His potential return is also viewed with deep unease in Washington due to his historical ties to Iran.

Broader implications for US-Iraq relations

The public warning underscores the Trump administration's intent to directly influence Iraqi politics and limit Iranian sway in Baghdad. US officials have long viewed al-Maliki as a conduit for Tehran's influence, which they see as a threat to bilateral relations and regional security. Trump's statement frames future American assistance as conditional on Iraq's leadership choices, potentially reshaping the strategic partnership.