Iraq's New PM Ali al-Zaidi Takes Office with Partial Cabinet

May 15, 2026

63 min

May 15, 2026 02:30

Iraq's new PM sworn in with partial Cabinet after deadlock over key posts

## Swearing-In Ceremony

Iraq's new Prime Minister, Ali al-Zaidi, has officially taken office with a partially formed Cabinet. This development follows a parliamentary session where 14 ministers were approved, but key positions such as the interior and defense ministries remain unfilled due to ongoing political negotiations.

## Parliamentary Approval

During the session, chaired by Speaker Haibet al-Halbousi, 266 lawmakers voted in favor of the 14 ministers. Notable appointments include Fuad Hussein as foreign minister, Basim Mohammed Khudair as oil minister, and Faleh al-Sari as finance minister.

## Delayed Decisions

Votes on the remaining key ministries have been postponed to allow more time for political consultations. The Iraqi constitution requires the prime minister to secure parliamentary approval for the entire Cabinet and government program before formally assuming office.

## Political Context

Ali al-Zaidi was nominated by the Coordination Framework, the largest parliamentary bloc, and was named prime minister-designate by President Nizar Amedi on April 27. Under Iraq's power-sharing system, the prime ministership is traditionally held by a Shiite Muslim.

## International Reactions

U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated al-Zaidi on his nomination, expressing support for the new government and hope for strengthened bilateral relations. Trump emphasized the potential for a prosperous and stable future for Iraq under al-Zaidi's leadership.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents