In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Iraq would be making “a very bad decision” by bringing Maliki back as prime minister. “If Nouri al-Maliki is re-elected as PM, we will not help them,” Trump wrote, adding that Iraq would have “little chance of success, prosperity, or freedom” under his leadership.
Trump cited Maliki’s previous tenure from 2006 to 2014, a period marked by sectarian violence, political instability and widespread poverty. He criticised Maliki’s policies and ideology, describing them as “insane,” and said the United States would not repeat what he called past mistakes by supporting a government aligned against American interests.
The warning comes as Iraq struggles to form a new government following parliamentary elections held on November 11, 2025. No political bloc secured a majority in the 329-seat parliament, forcing parties into prolonged coalition talks. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s alliance emerged as the largest bloc with around 46 seats, but negotiations remain deadlocked.
On January 24, a Shia coalition nominated Maliki for the post of prime minister, a move that has drawn concern in Washington. The presidential election, a key step in government formation, has been delayed due to disagreements among Kurdish factions over a consensus candidate.
Maliki, a senior Shia leader, is widely regarded as one of Iran’s closest allies in Iraq. Trump, who has repeatedly described Iran as America’s principal adversary in the region, has expressed fears that Maliki’s return would significantly expand Tehran’s influence in Baghdad.
Maliki’s earlier terms as prime minister coincided with the withdrawal of US combat troops and the subsequent rise of extremist groups, including ISIS. Critics accuse him of marginalising Sunni and Kurdish communities, concentrating power within the security forces, and fostering corruption and nepotism. Supporters, however, point to his role in authorising operations against Al-Qaeda and militias during the 2007–08 surge, conducted alongside US forces.
The United States currently provides Iraq with extensive security, economic and humanitarian assistance under the US-Iraq Strategic Framework Agreement, signed in 2008. This includes counterterrorism cooperation, military training, economic support and educational exchanges.
Trump’s statement signals that this support could be reconsidered if Baghdad moves forward with Maliki’s nomination. While Iraqi leaders have not formally responded, analysts say the warning adds pressure to an already fragile political process and underscores how leadership choices in Baghdad could reshape Iraq’s ties with Washington at a critical moment for regional stability.
