Leaders of Iraq’s Coordination Framework (CF), the largest Shia political bloc, remain committed to nominating former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki for the premiership despite a warning from US President Donald Trump that Washington would cut off aid if he returned to power. Trump and the US administration view al-Maliki as aligned with Iran’s influence network in Iraq and fear his reinstatement would undermine efforts to curb Tehran’s reach. The CF reiterated that choosing a prime minister is an Iraqi constitutional matter free from foreign interference.

The CF’s internal divisions have deepened, with some factions, including the Badr Organization and the Islamic Supreme Council, backing al-Maliki, while others such as Ammar al-Hakim and Haider al-Abadi caution against economic repercussions from defying the US. Kurdish and Sunni parties also remain split, delaying the presidential election required before a new government can form. The CF is attempting to mediate between the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan to break the deadlock.

The standoff coincides with a looming US decision on renewing legal protections for Iraq’s oil revenues held in New York. A refusal to renew could freeze Iraqi assets, threatening the country’s economy and adding pressure on Baghdad’s political negotiations.