Iraq Names Businessman Ali al-Zaidi as Prime Minister to End Political Deadlock
Iraq's president named businessman Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate on Monday after months of political deadlock. Al-Zaidi, a political outsider, was chosen by the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shia parties that controls parliament.
Iraq's president officially named Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate on Monday, ending months of political paralysis in the country. Al-Zaidi is a businessman with no major political experience.
The Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shia political parties that holds the majority in parliament, nominated al-Zaidi earlier Monday. His selection beat out a pro-Iranian rival, showing the complex power struggles within Iraq's government.
The nomination comes after months of deadlock as different political groups couldn't agree on a candidate. The delay reflected competing pressures from Iran and the United States, both of which want influence over Iraq's government.
As an outsider to politics, al-Zaidi represents a break from typical Iraqi leadership. He now has the task of forming a new government and addressing the country's ongoing challenges with electricity, water, and economic stability.
Iraq has struggled with political instability since the 2003 U.S. invasion removed Saddam Hussein. The country sits on some of the world's largest oil reserves but many citizens still lack reliable basic services.
Iraq's government gridlock has left the oil-rich country struggling with basic services and economic problems. The months-long delay in picking a leader shows how Iran and the United States compete for influence in this key Middle East nation.
Al-Zaidi must now work to form a government and win parliament's approval within constitutional deadlines.
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