Former Iraqi PM Nouri al-Maliki Rejects Withdrawing Candidacy Despite US Opposition

Former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki affirmed his refusal to withdraw his candidacy for the premiership despite US opposition. This came during an interview with Agence France-Presse on Monday, in which al-Maliki pledged to protect embassies and control weapons in the country.

Al-Maliki’s Insistence on His Candidacy Despite Threats

Refusal to Withdraw Despite External Pressures

Nouri al-Maliki announced in a talk with Agence France-Presse on Monday his insistence on his candidacy for the premiership of the Iraqi government. The prominent Iraqi politician confirmed that he would not respond to external pressures demanding his withdrawal, despite American threats to impose sanctions on Baghdad.

Political Support for the Candidacy

Al-Maliki’s nomination comes from the “Coordination Framework”, which includes an alliance of Iran-aligned Shiite parties. This alliance is considered the main political force supporting al-Maliki’s candidacy to lead the next Iraqi government.

Al-Maliki’s Initiatives to Alleviate Concerns

Pledge to Control Weapons

In his statements, al-Maliki sought to alleviate American concerns by affirming his commitment to restricting weapons to the Iraqi state. He announced that armed factions would not have an independent existence outside official state institutions under his leadership.

Guarantee of Embassy Protection

The former prime minister pledged to protect diplomatic missions in Iraq from any violations. These pledges came in the context of current tensions between Washington and Tehran, which are reflected in the situation in Iraq.

Political Context of the Statements

US-Iran Tensions and Their Repercussions

Al-Maliki’s statements come at a time when US-Iranian relations are witnessing escalating tensions. Iraq is considered one of the most prominent arenas witnessing a tug-of-war for influence between the two regional powers.

The Role of the Coordination Framework in the Political Scene

The “Coordination Framework” emerges as a pivotal force in forming the next Iraqi government. This alliance includes the most influential Shiite parties in the current Iraqi political landscape.