Sudani ally reverses position on Maliki, cites ‘firm’ American veto

BAGHDAD — Qusay Mahbooba, a leader in the Reconstruction and Development Coalition and one of the earliest advocates for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s bloc to step aside in favor of Nouri al-Maliki, announced a shift in position Wednesday night, citing what he described as a steadfast American veto.

Mahbooba revealed a “retreat” from his previous support, stating that “Trump’s veto remains firm” and stressing that the entire Coordination Framework does not want to enter into a confrontation with Washington.

“Today we are hearing American messages that the veto against Mr. Maliki is still strong. I do not believe that Maliki, the Coordination Framework, or anyone wants to enter into a confrontation with the United States,” he said during an interview on Iraq 24.

He added that Iraq’s limited independence in security and economic matters constrains its political options. “If America maintains its position, we are a state that does not have high security and economic independence from the United States to be able to enter into a confrontation with it,” he said.

“In the end, if Maliki cannot overcome this veto, then he must certainly listen to it,” Mahbooba concluded.

State of Law spokesperson Aqeel al-Fatlawi said Tuesday that Maliki’s nomination remains in place, dismissing talk of sanctions as unfounded.

Following the November 2025 elections, Sudani and Maliki emerged as the principal contenders for the premiership within the Shiite Coordination Framework. Although Sudani’s Reconstruction and Development Coalition won the largest share of seats within the alliance, internal rivalries prevented him from securing unanimous support.

In January, Sudani formally withdrew from the race and endorsed Maliki. His allies portrayed the decision as a step aimed at preserving unity within the framework.

Maliki served as prime minister from 2006 to 2014. He stepped down under intense domestic and international pressure after the fall of Mosul to the Islamic State group.

The Coordination Framework nominated Maliki following the elections. President Donald Trump said the United States would not continue support for Iraq if Maliki returned to office.