BAGHDAD, Feb 1, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Iraq's main Shiite alliance, which holds a parliamentary majority, said it will back Nouri al-Maliki to become the next prime minister, despite US threats to end all support to the country. Maliki, a powerbroker and shrewd politician, is Iraq's only two-term prime minister, having led the government between 2006 and 2014. "Choosing the prime minister is an exclusively Iraqi constitutional matter ... free from foreign interference," it said. Once elected, the president will have 15 days to appoint a prime minister, typically nominated by the largest Shiite bloc. One source said that Shiite leaders are divided: some wanted Maliki to retreat fearing US sanctions if he returns to office.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 01, 2026 03:04 UTC