Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi received a call from US President Donald Trump, who congratulated him on his nomination and invited him to the US once his government is formed, his office announced on Thursday.
Trump’s threat earlier this year to end all support to the country if frontrunner Nouri al Maliki became the next prime minister left Iraqi leaders looking elsewhere and ultimately paved the way for Zaidi’s pick.
Trump “extended a formal invitation to visit Washington following the formation of the government,” said the PM media office’s statement.
Zaidi and Trump “discussed the strategic bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States,” and “bilateral cooperation to consolidate stability in the region,” it added.
Trump posted on his Truth Social network that “we wish him success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq”.
“This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nations — Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before. Again, Ali, CONGRATULATIONS!”
Five months on from legislative elections, Iraqi President Nizar Amidi nominated businessman Zaidi as prime minister-designate on Monday, giving him the daunting task of putting a cabinet together in the next 30 days amid fierce political wrangling.
Regional tensions shape new government formation
The nomination came after months of deadlock due to Trump’s opposition to two-time former premier Maliki, who has close ties to Iran.
