Former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has responded defiantly to threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Washington's support for Iraq. Trump warned that the U.S. would withdraw aid if al-Maliki returns to power, citing concerns over his ties to Iran and past policies. Al-Maliki was nominated to return to the premiership by the Coordination Framework.

Trump's intervention stems from concerns over al-Maliki's closeness to Iran. His previous term saw the rise of the Islamic State group. Washington pushes Iraq to distance itself from Tehran. Al-Maliki's potential return complicates relations. Iraq relies on U.S. support and any withdrawal could lead to economic instability, potentially impacting access to U.S. dollars.

Al-Maliki stated he would continue to seek the premiership, regardless of Trump's comments. A parliament session to elect a president, who would then appoint the prime minister, was canceled due to a lack of quorum. This political uncertainty comes as the U.S. continues to transfer suspected ISIS members to Iraq.

Political analysts suggest that current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani may have anticipated negative reactions to al-Maliki and stepped aside to allow a temporary spotlight on al-Maliki. Potential outcomes include a third compromise candidate, which would likely still be affected by Trump's stance.