Zaidi thanks parliament after confidence vote, pledges stability and ‘dignified lift’ for Iraqis

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi thanked parliament and political parties Thursday after lawmakers granted confidence to his government, pledging to “strengthen stability, reinforce the authority of the state, and fulfill the aspirations of Iraqis for development, justice, and a dignified life.”

“This confidence represents a great trust and a solemn commitment before our beloved people that we will move forward with determination,” Zaidi said in his first statement following the vote.

Parliament approved 14 ministers during the session, attended by 266 lawmakers and chaired by Speaker Haibat al-Halbousi, before Zaidi and the approved cabinet members took the constitutional oath. Several blocs boycotted the session, including Ishraq Kanun, Komal, Yekgirtu and Halwest.

Among those approved were Fuad Hussein as foreign minister, Falih al-Sari as finance minister, Khalid Shwani as justice minister and Sarwa Abdulwahid as environment minister.

Several nominees failed to secure confidence, including Ahmed Nazim al-Azzawi for planning, Amer al-Khuzaie for higher education, Qassem Atta — the former Iraqi armed forces spokesperson — for interior, and Rebaz Hamlan for construction and housing. The culture ministry was also left unfilled. Voting on defense, labor, migration and youth and sports was postponed pending further political agreements.