Barzani congratulates PM-designate al-Zaidi in phone call

BAGHDAD — Kurdistan Democratic Party President Masoud Barzani called Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi on Tuesday to congratulate him on his designation and discuss government formation, according to a statement from the prime minister’s media office.

Both sides “affirmed the importance of strengthening communication among all national forces to expedite the formation of the government in a manner that fulfills the aspirations of our people across the country,” the statement said.

The call follows similar congratulations from other Kurdish leaders. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani expressed hope for “a comprehensive national government that meets the aspirations of our people across Iraq,” while Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan head Bafel Talabani also pledged support for al-Zaidi’s efforts.

The Coordination Framework nominated al-Zaidi Monday evening, ending a deadlock that had persisted since the November 2025 parliamentary elections. A businessman, lawyer and owner of Dijlah TV, he was described by political figures as a “compromise candidate” after five months of negotiations.