Former US President Donald Trump has recently made a controversial online statement, expressing his desire to “make Iraq great again” by intervening in the country’s ongoing election process. Trump, known for his involvement in global politics through social media platforms like Truth Social, warned against the potential re-election of Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister of Iraq. He claimed that Iraq would face dire consequences if Maliki regained power due to his past governance leading to economic hardship and chaos in the nation.
Trump’s attempt to influence foreign elections is not new, as he has previously made similar statements regarding countries like Argentina and Colombia. However, Trump’s focus on Iraq, considering the troubled history between the US and the Middle Eastern nation, has raised eyebrows.
In the aftermath of the recent Presidential election in Iraq, the winning candidate is expected to nominate a government leader from the largest party in Parliament. Currently, a nominee from a coalition of Shia blocs, representing the majority, is poised to take on this role.
The 75-year-old politician, who previously served as Iraq’s Prime Minister from 2006 to 2014, is being endorsed for a return to power by the Shia Coordination Framework. Their decision is based on his experience in governance and his past contributions to the country’s administration during turbulent times, including the rise of ISIS.
While Trump is scheduled to address a rally in Iowa, focusing on economic matters, his administration has initiated steps to potentially reopen the US Embassy in Venezuela. This move signals a potential shift in US-Venezuela relations following past events, including the military action that led to the removal of former President Nicolás Maduro.
As developments unfold in Iraq’s political landscape, Trump’s attempt to sway the country’s leadership faces uncertainties amid the ongoing transition of power.