Peregraf- Iraq’s Shia Coordination Framework on Saturday reaffirmed its commitment to nominating Nouri Kamil al-Maliki for the post of prime minister, despite a public rejection by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
In a statement issued after its 261st regular meeting, held at al-Maliki’s office on January 31, 2026, the Framework said the selection of the prime minister is a purely Iraqi constitutional matter, carried out in accordance with political mechanisms and national interests, and free from external interference.
The bloc stressed its intention to maintain balanced relations with the international community, particularly influential global powers, on the basis of mutual respect and non-interference in Iraq’s internal affairs.
The Coordination Framework also underlined that Iraq is a state of institutions capable of managing its political entitlements in line with the Constitution and the will of elected representatives, while calling on all parties to respect constitutional timelines and intensify efforts to reach consensual solutions.
Ammar al-Hakim did not participate in the meeting, according to the Iraqi media.
Ahead of the meeting, Head of the National State Powers Alliance—part of the Coordination Framework—Ammar al-Hakim expressed deep regret over Trump’s tweet rejecting al-Maliki’s nomination. Al-Hakim stressed the need to uphold constitutional timelines and prioritize Iraq’s national interests.
In a statement, al-Hakim emphasized “the importance of adhering to constitutional timings,” calling for the election of the President of the Republic and the pursuit of appropriate solutions to the current political impasse. He warned that escalating tensions could lead to significant economic consequences, while reaffirming pride in approaches that preserve Iraq’s sovereignty—describing this as “the height of courage and responsibility.”
Al-Hakim further clarified that the Hikma National Movement does not pursue opposition, obstruction, or political pressure, but bases its stance on participation or non-participation in the political process according to what best serves the public interest.