United States President Donald Trump has warned Iraq’s political leaders that reinstalling former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki would be a disastrous mistake, arguing that Iraq fell into chaos and poverty during his previous tenure. He signaled that American support could be withdrawn if Maliki returns to office, an unusually direct attempt to influence Iraq’s government formation process as parliament struggles to elect a president and nominate a prime minister.

Maliki, backed by powerful Shiite factions and seen as close to Iran, faces opposition from several Sunni, Kurdish, and Shiite figures. Political deadlock has delayed the constitutional process, and it remains uncertain whether his candidacy will secure enough support amid internal divisions and external pressure from Washington.

Maliki served as prime minister from 2006 to 2014, a period widely criticized for authoritarian tendencies, sectarian policies, and entrenched corruption. His leadership was blamed for deepening Sunni grievances and weakening state institutions, contributing to the rapid territorial gains of the Islamic State group in 2014, including the سقوط of Mosul, which ultimately forced his resignation.

Given his record in office and his close ties to Tehran, his potential return raises concerns about Iraq’s stability and regional alignment. Whether domestic opposition and American pressure will block his comeback remains an open question as political bargaining continues in Baghdad.