Kurdish leaders welcome al-Zaidi nomination, pledge support for government formation

BAGHDAD — Kurdish leaders on Monday and Tuesday welcomed the nomination of Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate, pledging support for his efforts to form a new federal government.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani congratulated al-Zaidi on X, expressing hope for “a comprehensive national government that meets the aspirations of our people across Iraq and works to strengthen stability and reconstruction.”

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani extended congratulations following a phone call with al-Zaidi, saying the two discussed “resolving all outstanding issues based on the constitution” and expressing hope that “Iraq will witness a new era filled with security, stability and peace.”

Patriotic Union of Kurdistan head Bafel Talabani said his party would “support his success in forming a capable and inclusive government and cooperate with that government so that Iraq can overcome the economic and security crises it has faced.”

Al-Zaidi’s nomination was announced Monday evening by the Coordination Framework, ending a five-month deadlock following the November 2025 parliamentary elections. A businessman, lawyer and owner of Dijlah TV, he had not featured prominently in earlier discussions and was described by political figures as a “compromise candidate.” His selection came after the framework missed the 15-day constitutional deadline tied to President Nizar Amedi’s April 12 inauguration.