Overview
- The Coordination Framework reaffirmed Nouri al-Maliki as its prime minister nominee and said selecting a leader is an Iraqi constitutional matter free of foreign interference.
- U.S. President Donald Trump warned Washington would no longer help Iraq if Maliki takes office, calling him a very bad choice.
- Maliki condemned what he termed blatant American interference and declared he would not withdraw his candidacy.
- The next step in government formation—electing a president who can designate a prime minister—faces uncertainty over quorum as Kurdish parties have not agreed on a single candidate.
- Analysts highlight U.S. leverage through Iraqi oil revenues held at the New York Fed, and AFP reported some Shiite leaders fear sanctions after U.S. representatives told Maliki Washington’s position is final.