BAGHDAD — President Donald Trump reached out by phone Thursday to Iraq’s newly chosen prime minister-designate, offering him an invitation to the White House once he successfully establishes his government, according to a statement from the Iraqi prime minister’s office.
Following the conversation, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to congratulate Ali al-Zaidi and express hopes for his “success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq.”
“We look forward to a strong, vibrant, and highly productive new relationship between Iraq and the United States,” the post said. “This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nations — Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before.”
The telephone conversation and social media message indicate Washington’s approval of al-Zaidi, a business executive with no prior political experience, following Trump’s earlier rejection of another contender for the position.
Iraq’s leading parliamentary group, known as the Coordination Framework — a Shiite party alliance with ties to Iran — selected al-Zaidi for the prime minister role Monday after extensive internal discussions among coalition members.
The alliance had initially indicated support for former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, whom the U.S. considers too closely aligned with Iran. Trump openly opposed al-Maliki’s candidacy and warned of potential aid cuts to Iraq if he received the appointment.
Despite al-Maliki’s resistance to Trump’s interference, the parliamentary bloc ultimately chose a different candidate as a compromise.
Al-Zaidi, who serves as chairman of Al-Janoob Islamic Bank, gained momentum in the final selection rounds due to his financial expertise and business connections. He has never served in government before.
In 2024, Al-Janoob was among several banks prohibited by Iraq’s central bank from conducting dollar transactions as the U.S. pressured Iraq to combat money laundering and fund transfers to Iran. Neither the bank nor al-Zaidi face U.S. sanctions.
After receiving the nomination, al-Zaidi pledged to work toward making Iraq “a balanced country, regionally and internationally.”
“This appointment comes at a sensitive time that requires concerted efforts from all political and social forces,” he said.
Constitutional rules give the designated prime minister 30 days to submit a Cabinet proposal to parliament, which needs 167 votes for approval.
The incoming government will face challenges from the Iran conflict’s political and economic consequences, which have affected Iraq, while Strait of Hormuz closures have disrupted the oil exports that drive Iraq’s economy.
