Peregraf — Head of the State of Law Coalition Nouri al-Maliki called for full respect for Iraq’s sovereignty and the will of its people during a meeting with U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack in Baghdad.
According to a statement from Maliki’s media office, the former prime minister stressed that Iraq’s political future must be determined internally, emphasizing that “the choices of its people” should be the guiding principle in shaping the next government.
The remarks come at a sensitive moment, as Maliki has been put forward as a candidate for prime minister by factions within the Shiite Coordination Framework. His potential return, however, has faced notable external opposition—particularly from Donald Trump, who has rejected his candidacy.
Despite this, Maliki’s message during the meeting underscored a firm stance against foreign interference, framing the government formation process as a sovereign Iraqi matter.
The meeting—considered the first known engagement between U.S. officials and Maliki since Trump’s position became clear—signals ongoing diplomatic contact, even as disagreements persist over Iraq’s next prime minister.
Discussions between the two sides also covered broader political developments and regional dynamics, with both parties expressing readiness to continue dialogue on issues of mutual interest.