Trump endorses nomination of Iraqi PM-designate Ali al-Zaidi, hails future relationship between U.S. and Iraq

(Background) President Donald Trump answers questions on April 30, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) / (R) Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi.

President Donald Trump officially endorsed the nomination of Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi, signaling a potential turning point for diplomatic relations between the United States and Iraq.

In a statement released following a direct phone conversation with the nominee, Trump described the selection as the start of a positive new chapter for the Middle Eastern nation and expressed a strong desire to foster a partnership defined by stability and prosperity. 

 

By extending a formal invitation for al-Zaidi to visit the White House upon the successful formation of his government, the administration has signaled a clear departure from the friction earlier this year regarding other political figures, positioning al-Zaidi as a pivotal partner in regional security and economic cooperation.

“Congratulations to Ali al-Zaidi on his Nomination to be the next Prime Minister of Iraq! We wish him success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq,” Trump posted to Truth Social on Thursday.

 

“We look forward to a strong vibrant, and highly productive new relationship between Iraq and the United States. This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nation — Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before. Again, Ali, CONGRATULATIONS!” the president continued.

President Donald Trump Truth Social post

 

Following his formal appointment by Iraqi President Nizar Amedi on Monday, Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi has entered a critical 30-day window to finalize a cabinet and present it to the Council of Representatives for approval.

According to analysis from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, this deadline requires al-Zaidi to secure parliamentary support for his ministers before he can officially assume office and succeed the outgoing administration.

While his nomination by the Coordination Framework ends a five-month political deadlock, the successful transition of power remains contingent on his ability to navigate Iraq’s fragmented political landscape and seat a government that meets both domestic and international standards.