Monday, March 2, 2026

MNT GOAT: Iran’s Downfall and the Coming Reinstatement of the Iraqi Dinar #iraqidinar #iraq

US To Act Hard If Iraqi Factions Target Its Interests

 US To Act Hard If Iraqi Factions Target Its Interests

2026-02-27   Shafaq News- Washington   Washington treats threats from some Iraqi armed factions seriously, pledging to respond firmly to any threat against US interests or the Kurdistan Region, a US politician said on Friday.

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Malik Francis, a member of the US Republican Party, told Shafaq News that previous incidents have shown some of these factions are capable of carrying out rocket or drone attacks, noting that US authorities respond to such actions by increasing protective measures, strengthening coordination with the Iraqi government, and reserving the right to respond if necessary. At the same time, he added, the US administration recognizes that some of the warnings are part of political messaging linked to regional tensions.

Regarding the impact of US-Iran tensions on Iraq, Francis stated that “continued escalation carries serious risks” as any targeting of foreign interests, particularly in the Kurdistan Region, which he described as a more stable and investment-attractive environment, could undermine investor confidence, directly affecting Iraq’s economy and financial stability.

“Continued attacks place the Iraqi government in a difficult position between its sovereign obligations to protect foreign missions and internal pressures from certain armed groups, and if Baghdad fails to enforce the state’s monopoly over weapons, it could weaken state authority and further destabilize the political environment.”

In a statement, Kataib Hezbollah said that the United States would face “massive losses” if it launched a military strike against Iran and called on its fighters to prepare for what it described as a “long war of attrition.” The group also cautioned the Kurdistan Regional Government against what it termed “collaboration with hostile foreign powers.” 

Additionally, the Iraqi Resistance Coordination Committee, an umbrella grouping of several armed factions, threatened to target US interests and bases in Iraq and nearby countries.

Politics

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/US-to-act-hard-if-Iraqi-factions-target-its-interests


SANDY INGRAM: 🇮🇶 Iraq Airspace Tensions, IQD Stability & Political Silence

 ✈️ Missiles Over Iraq: Regional Conflict Felt at Home

According to commentary from Sandy Ingram, witnesses in Iraq reported seeing warplanes and missiles crossing Iraqi airspace during strikes launched by the United States and Israel targeting Iran.

Civilians in Baghdad and other regions reportedly observed missiles flying low across the sky.

Although Iraq was not the target, the psychological impact was real.

This highlights an important reality:

Even when not directly involved, Iraq remains geographically and strategically positioned within regional tensions.


🌍 Iraq Caught in the Middle — But Not the Target

The reported strikes involved the United States and Israel targeting positions inside Iran.

Iraq’s location between major regional powers makes its airspace strategically sensitive.

For Iraqi citizens, this means:

  • Fear and uncertainty

  • Concerns about escalation

  • Questions about neutrality

  • Anxiety over potential retaliation

Despite this, there were no reports indicating Iraq itself was the intended military objective.


💱 The IQD Is Holding: 1309.52

Amid the regional tension, Sandy Ingram noted that the Iraqi dinar (IQD) exchange rate remains steady at 1309.52 per USD.

This stability is noteworthy.

During geopolitical stress, currencies often experience:

  • Volatility

  • Capital outflows

  • Exchange pressure

The fact that the rate is holding suggests:

  • Continued central bank control

  • Managed currency policy

  • Maintained liquidity

  • No immediate financial panic

The Central Bank of Iraq continues operating under its current exchange framework.


🔎 Featured Snippet: Why Currency Stability Matters During Conflict

When a country’s currency remains stable during regional conflict, it signals strong central bank intervention, adequate reserves, and controlled monetary policy.

Currency stability reduces:

  • Inflation spikes

  • Import cost shocks

  • Investor panic

  • Banking system stress

Holding at 1309.52 indicates that Iraq’s monetary structure remains intact — at least for now.


🏛 Political Silence & Maliki Meeting

Sandy also pointed out that former U.S. President Donald Trump has not made any public statements regarding Nouri al-Maliki , despite Friday passing without comment.

Meanwhile, Maliki is reportedly meeting with a U.S. envoy.

What does this mean?

At this stage:

  • No official conclusions can be drawn

  • Diplomatic discussions are ongoing

  • Public silence does not necessarily indicate inactivity

High-level diplomatic meetings often occur quietly before public announcements are made.


⚖️ Iraq’s Balancing Act

Iraq must currently balance:

  • Regional military tension

  • Diplomatic coordination

  • Domestic political developments

  • Economic reform efforts

Avoiding escalation while maintaining currency stability is a complex challenge.


❓ Q&A Section

❓ Was Iraq attacked?

No. Reports indicate missiles crossed Iraqi airspace, but Iraq was not the intended military target.

❓ Is the Iraqi dinar collapsing?

No. The exchange rate remains stable at 1309.52 per USD under central bank management.

❓ Why hasn’t Trump commented?

There has been no public statement. Diplomatic silence does not necessarily imply inactivity.

❓ What does Maliki meeting a U.S. envoy suggest?

It may indicate diplomatic dialogue regarding Iraq’s political positioning and regional neutrality.

❓ Could regional tension affect monetary reform?

Yes. Escalation could create delays, but current currency stability suggests no immediate monetary shock.


📊 Key Indicators to Watch

  • Official statements from Baghdad

  • U.S. diplomatic communications

  • Central Bank of Iraq rate adjustments

  • Regional military developments

  • Oil market reactions

If stability continues despite regional tension, investor confidence may remain intact.


⚠️ Responsible Perspective

Regional conflicts can shift rapidly.

Investors and observers should:

✔ Monitor official government statements
✔ Verify exchange rates via central bank data
✔ Avoid reacting to unverified rumors
✔ Understand that short-term stability does not guarantee long-term outcomes


🌍 Final Thoughts

Missiles crossing Iraqi skies are a stark reminder of the region’s volatility. Civilians feel the fear, even when not directly targeted.

Yet financially, Iraq’s currency remains steady.

The IQD holding at 1309.52 demonstrates monetary control amid geopolitical turbulence.

The coming days will clarify whether diplomacy prevails or tensions escalate further.

Stay informed. Stay grounded. Watch official sources carefully.


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🔥  Hashtags

#Iraq #IQD #Baghdad #MiddleEastNews #Iran #Israel #USForeignPolicy #CurrencyStability #DinarUpdate #Geopolitics #BreakingNews #CentralBank #ForexNews #GlobalMarkets

Sandy Ingram 

 Witnesses in Iraq saw war planes and missiles flying across Iraqi airspace as the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran...People in places like Baghdad and other areas in Iraq saw missiles flying low across the sky...Iraq wasn't the target but Iraq still felt the fear...That's the reality civilians are facing in the region...The IQD is holding up.  The rate is 1309.52...

 Trump has not said anything, but Friday has come and gone.  Trump has not said anything about Maliki but Maliki is meeting with the US envoy.  We're not sure yet what that means...

FIREFLY: Trump makes impossible for Iran to use Iraq's monetary financial system to avoid sanctions

 

US Envoy Holds Talks With PM Al-Sudani As Deadline Pressures Iraq’s Government Formation

 US Envoy Holds Talks With PM Al-Sudani As Deadline Pressures Iraq’s Government Formation

2026-02-27 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Caretaker Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met Friday with US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack to discuss bilateral ties, regional tensions, and efforts to shield Iraq from wider instability.

According to a statement from Al-Sudani’s office, Barrack conveyed President Donald Trump’s view of current regional developments and underscored Iraq’s role in promoting stability and economic growth.

Al-Sudani said Iraqi leaders are prioritizing national interests and safeguarding strategic gains, stressing that Iraq’s sovereignty and stability are essential not only domestically but for regional balance.

History

The meeting reviewed ways to address regional disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels, with both sides emphasizing economic development as a path to reducing tensions.

Barrack’s visit followed talks 

with State of Law Coalition leader Nouri Al-Maliki, during which issues related to Iraq’s  political process and regional security were discussed. Barrack highlighted Iraq’s role in counterterrorism and conflict de-escalation, according to a statement from Al-Maliki’s office.

The diplomatic activity comes as political blocs elected in late 2025 seek to resolve delayed constitutional steps, including selecting a president and naming a prime minister. Washington earlier set a deadline for the ruling Shiite Coordination Framework to reconsider Al-Maliki’s nomination for premier, a move that has deepened divisions within the alliance.

Read more: Iraq’s next Prime Minister held hostage by US-Iran standoff

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/US-Envoy-holds-talks-with-PM-Al-Sudani-as-deadline-pressures-Iraq-s-government-formation


CLARE: 🇮🇶 Iraq at a Crossroads: Align with America or Risk Being Left Behind?

 🌍 Iraq Faces a Strategic Decision

According to commentary shared by Clare, recent Iraqi political articles suggest the nation stands at a historic crossroads.

One headline states:

“Al-Mulla: Iraq faces two choices: either a clear alignment with America or being left behind by the times.”

The quote emphasizes:

“The scene is changing rapidly, and with the inevitability of Iran’s transformation towards a new system and arrangements, the gray area is no longer an option for Iraq.”

This language signals that Iraq may no longer be able to balance between competing geopolitical powers without choosing a clearer strategic direction.


🇺🇸 Message from Washington to Baghdad

A second article reports:

“A message from Washington to Baghdad emphasizes that Iraq should not be drawn into a war against Iran.”

The quoted statement says:

“A high-ranking source confirmed… that Baghdad had received an official message from the United States, stressing the need to keep Iraq neutral from the repercussions of the ongoing war with Iran, and to ensure that it is not drawn into any military confrontation.”

This suggests direct diplomatic communication between Washington and Iraqi leadership.


🏛 The Strategic Reality: Neutrality Under Pressure

Iraq historically has attempted to maintain balanced relations with:

  • The United States

  • Iran

  • Regional Gulf partners

  • International institutions

However, shifting regional dynamics may be narrowing Iraq’s room to maneuver.

If tensions escalate, Iraq could face:

  • Security risks

  • Economic disruptions

  • Investment hesitation

  • Trade complications

Maintaining neutrality while preserving economic reform momentum is a delicate balance.


🔎 Featured Snippet: Why Geopolitical Alignment Matters for Economic Reform

A country’s geopolitical alignment impacts foreign investment, international banking integration, sanctions exposure, and overall economic confidence.

When major global powers communicate directly about neutrality:

  • It signals high-stakes regional sensitivity

  • It affects investor risk assessments

  • It influences long-term development planning

For Iraq, political positioning directly connects to economic modernization efforts led by the Central Bank of Iraq and monitored by international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund.


⚖️ “The Gray Area Is No Longer an Option”

The phrase “gray area is no longer an option” suggests:

  • Increased pressure for clarity

  • Reduced tolerance for ambiguous alliances

  • Regional restructuring underway

If Iran undergoes significant transformation, as suggested in the article, Iraq may need to recalibrate its foreign policy rapidly.

Such recalibration could impact:

  • Energy exports

  • Dollar access

  • Banking channels

  • Infrastructure partnerships


🌐 The Economic Angle

Iraq has worked extensively on:

  • Banking sector reform

  • Anti-money laundering compliance

  • Digital payment systems

  • International trade integration

Political instability or military entanglement could delay these reforms.

Conversely, maintaining neutrality and strengthening Western ties could:

  • Enhance financial integration

  • Increase investor confidence

  • Accelerate infrastructure projects

  • Improve global market access


❓ Q&A Section

❓ Is Iraq being forced to choose between the U.S. and Iran?

Publicly, Iraq maintains sovereignty and independent policy. However, geopolitical realities may limit how long it can remain neutral without clarifying alignment.

❓ Did Washington officially warn Baghdad?

According to the cited article, Baghdad received an official U.S. message emphasizing neutrality and avoidance of military confrontation.

❓ How does this affect Iraq’s economy?

Geopolitical stability directly affects foreign investment, banking access, and reform timelines.

❓ Could conflict derail monetary reform?

Yes. Security instability can delay financial integration and economic modernization efforts.

❓ What is Iraq’s best path forward?

Analysts suggest stability, neutrality, and strategic diplomacy are essential for continued reform progress.


📊 What Observers Are Watching Now

  • Diplomatic statements from Baghdad

  • U.S.–Iraq coordination updates

  • Regional military developments

  • IMF and international financial engagement

  • Energy export stability

If Iraq successfully avoids entanglement while continuing reforms, confidence could strengthen significantly.


⚠️ Responsible Perspective

Geopolitical headlines can escalate quickly. It is important to:

✔ Monitor official Iraqi government statements
✔ Verify diplomatic communications
✔ Separate opinion from policy
✔ Avoid reacting to unconfirmed speculation

Major foreign policy shifts are typically accompanied by formal declarations.


🌍 Final Thoughts

Iraq appears to be navigating one of its most delicate geopolitical moments in years.

With Washington urging neutrality and regional tensions intensifying, Baghdad’s strategic decisions in 2026 could define its political and economic trajectory for the next decade.

Alignment, neutrality, or recalibration — the outcome will shape reform momentum and international confidence.

Stay informed. Stay analytical. Watch official channels closely.


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Clare  

Article:  "Al-Mulla: Iraq faces two choices: either a clear alignment with America or being left behind by the times

 Quote: “The scene is changing rapidly, and with the inevitability of Iran’s transformation towards a new system and arrangements, the gray area is no longer an option for Iraq.

Article: "A message from Washington to Baghdad emphasizes that Iraq should not be drawn into a war against Iran

Quote:  "A high-ranking source confirmed on Saturday (February 28, 2026) that Baghdad had received an official message from the United States, stressing the need to keep Iraq neutral from the repercussions of the ongoing war with Iran, and to ensure that it is not drawn into any military confrontation."

FIREFLY: Iran to Lose Influence Over Iraq’s Prime Minister Selection, Says TV Report #iraq

 


Iraq Rejects Regional Escalation As Iran Begins Strikes On US Bases

 Iraq Rejects Regional Escalation As Iran Begins Strikes On US Bases

2026-02-28 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq rejects further military escalation in the region, Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein said on Saturday during a phone call with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, as military operations intensified between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

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According to a statement, Araghchi confirmed that Tehran would continue to defend itself, and the response would focus on US military installations in the region, describing the move as self-defense and that the strikes would not target the countries hosting those bases.

Hussein reaffirmed Iraq’s opposition to widening the conflict, saying armed confrontation cannot resolve ongoing crises. He called on all sides to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation to safeguard regional security and stability.

Iraq economic news

Earlier on Saturday, Iran launched what it called “True Promise 4,” targeting US military sites and firing projectiles toward Israel in response to a joint Israeli-American attack.

Regional media reported that Al-Juffair Base in Bahrain and Al-Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates were among the targets. Explosions were also reported in Kuwait and Qatar, where warning sirens were activated.

Read more: Zero-sum game: Can the Iran-Israel conflict push Iraq toward frontline?

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-rejects-regional-escalation-as-Iran-begins-strikes-on-US-bases


MILITIAMAN: 🌍 Iraq Stability, Development Road & Monetary Reform Signals

🇮🇶 Middle East Tensions — But What About Iraq?

According to commentary from Militia Man, recent unrest across parts of the Middle East has raised concerns among observers and investors alike.

However, when focusing specifically on Iraq, he expressed confidence that developments remain on course — particularly regarding monetary reform and long-term infrastructure initiatives.

While geopolitical tensions are serious, there are parallel structural developments unfolding behind the scenes.


🚧 The Development Road Project: Still Moving Forward?

One of the most significant long-term initiatives is Iraq’s Development Road Project — a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure corridor designed to connect the Gulf to Europe through Iraq via railways, highways, logistics hubs, and ports.

Why Is the Development Road Project Important?

Militia Man emphasized that despite regional instability, there has been no indication the project has been halted or scaled back.

Large infrastructure projects of this magnitude typically require:

  • Political stability

  • International cooperation

  • Secure trade corridors

  • Strong financial planning

The continuation of this project signals long-term strategic planning.


💰 Are Monetary Reforms Still on Track?

According to Militia Man’s perspective, yes — monetary reforms remain on track.

While no official rate change announcement has been issued by the Central Bank of Iraq, Iraq has made measurable progress in:

  • Banking sector modernization

  • Digital payment expansion

  • Anti-money laundering compliance

  • Cross-border financial controls

  • International integration efforts

Monetary reform is a process, not a single event. Structural groundwork often precedes visible currency adjustments.


📰 Article Spotlight: “Washington Reassures Iraq Will Not Be Dragged Into War”

A recent article highlighted official statements from Washington reassuring that Iraq will not be pulled into broader regional conflict.

The quote attributed to the U.S. president stated:

“I have a great understanding with Iraqi leadership… stressing that he gets along very well with Iraqi leaders.”

This suggests:

  • Ongoing diplomatic coordination

  • Strategic dialogue between Washington and Baghdad

  • Efforts to prevent escalation within Iraqi borders

Stability assurance from major global powers can significantly impact investor confidence.


🔎 Featured Snippet: Why Political & Security Stability Matter for Currency Reform

Currency reform depends heavily on national stability. Investors and global financial institutions require predictable governance, secure borders, and diplomatic alignment before supporting significant monetary transitions.

Without security guarantees:

  • Capital inflows may slow

  • Trade agreements may stall

  • Monetary policy confidence may weaken

Reassurances from Washington reduce perceived geopolitical risk.


🌐 Iraq’s Strategic Position in 2026

Iraq currently sits at the crossroads of:

  • U.S. diplomatic engagement

  • Regional Middle East tensions

  • Major infrastructure expansion

  • Banking and financial modernization

Balancing these factors successfully would position Iraq as a stabilizing economic force in the region rather than a participant in broader conflict.


❓ Q&A Section

❓ Has the Development Road Project been canceled?

No official reports indicate cancellation. It remains a central strategic initiative for Iraq’s economic diversification.

❓ Does regional unrest delay monetary reform?

Not necessarily. If Iraq remains insulated diplomatically and militarily, reform timelines may continue.

❓ Has the Central Bank of Iraq announced a revaluation?

No official revaluation announcement has been made.

❓ Why is U.S. reassurance important?

Because strong diplomatic relations reduce geopolitical risk and increase investor confidence.

❓ Can Iraq pursue reform during regional tensions?

Yes — if internal stability and international cooperation are maintained.


📊 Key Indicators Investors Are Watching

  • Development Road Project progress updates

  • Central Bank reform announcements

  • Diplomatic statements from Washington and Baghdad

  • Oil revenue stability

  • Banking compliance milestones

When infrastructure expansion and monetary reform align under stable leadership, confidence strengthens.


⚠️ Responsible Perspective

While commentary expresses optimism, currency markets respond to:

  • Official policy statements

  • International reserve levels

  • Fiscal discipline

  • Inflation control

  • Political continuity

Speculation should always be weighed against verified central bank communications.


🌍 Final Thoughts

Despite Middle East tensions, Iraq appears to be maintaining strategic alignment with major global powers while continuing long-term infrastructure development.

The Development Road Project remains active.

Monetary reforms continue progressing.

Washington’s reassurance adds another layer of stability.

The coming months will reveal whether political, economic, and security stability continue converging.

Stay informed. Stay analytical. Verify through official sources.


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🔥  Hashtags

#Iraq #DevelopmentRoad #IraqiDinar #MilitiaMan #MiddleEastNews #MonetaryReform #CBI #Geopolitics #Infrastructure #ForexNews #EconomicGrowth #GlobalMarkets #BreakingNews #InvestmentUpdate 

Militia Man 

We all know there's been some Middle East uproar and we're going to see how that goes...As far as Iraq is concerned I think you guys will be pleased and have confidence like I do.  Certain circumstances are serious but there's other items that are working in the background are serious as well.  The Development Road Project is serious.  Has there been any change to that

 No.  Monetary reforms are still on track.

 Article: "Washington reassures Iraq will not be dragged into war

 It's coming from official resources here in the United States and in the Middle East.  Quote:   "US president says, 'I have a great understanding with Iraqi leadership...stressing that he gets along very well with Iraqi leaders.' "

FIREFLY: IMF Praises Iraq's Financial Reforms!! ‪@DINARREVALUATION‬

 

Two crucial messages for Maliki... "The Hour" reveals Washington's message

 Two crucial messages for Maliki... "The Hour" reveals Washington's message

 In recent hours, the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, witnessed two important meetings between the US envoy to Iraq, Tom Barak , and outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition and candidate of the Coordination Framework for the next government .

The importance of the two meetings stems from the fact that they form the basis for determining the shape of the next government, the course of the political process, and the relationship between Baghdad and Washington, in light of the American rejection of al-Maliki’s nomination for the premiership and the latter’s insistence on adhering to this nomination, as the United States had previously threatened to impose sanctions on Iraq if al-Maliki assumed the position .

A statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister's office said that "Barak conveyed to Al-Sudani the viewpoint of US President Donald Trump, his vision of the current situation in the region, and Iraq's pivotal role in building stability and promoting regional development . "

The statement, which was received by Al-Sa’a Network, explained that “Al-Sudani indicated that the Iraqi leadership is committed to prioritizing the national interest and making efforts to protect the interests of the Iraqi people,” noting that “Iraq’s sovereignty and stability in various fields are not merely local considerations.”

The media office of Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, confirmed in a statement that he received the American envoy and that they discussed developments in the political scene in Iraq and upcoming national obligations .

During the meeting, according to a statement from his office, Maliki stressed "the need to respect Iraq's sovereignty and the choices of its people," pointing to "the importance of supporting the democratic process and strengthening political stability," and noting "the importance of continued communication and coordination between the two sides on issues of common interest."

The content of the two American messages to Maliki

However, political sources within the coordination framework revealed the content of the two meetings, in a manner that differs radically from the official statements issued by the offices of Al-Sudani and Al-Maliki. According to these sources, the American envoy informed Al-Sudani that Washington would impose sanctions if Al-Maliki were nominated for the premiership .

The most important content came during the meeting between Barak and Maliki, where the American envoy handed Maliki two messages, one written and the other oral, stating that Maliki would not be the head of the next government in Iraq, otherwise American sanctions would be imposed on institutions, entities and individuals in Iraq .

Iraqi investment opportunities

Al-Sa’a Network obtained the contents of the two American messages addressed to Nouri al-Maliki and the coordination framework. The written message that Barak conveyed to al-Maliki from US President Donald Trump included the following :

" The United States recognizes and appreciates your experience, wisdom, and vision, which are of paramount importance not only to the  political development in Iraq but also to the broader stability of the region. It is in this spirit that we seek constructive engagement, within the framework of specific considerations, to ensure the formation of the next Iraqi government. Trump's stance toward Maliki and the prime ministerial candidate is not based on personalities but on principle. Trump is focused on a new Middle East that turns the page on the past, one in which Iraq serves as an inspiration both domestically and internationally, and in which it strengthens its partnership with the United States. In this context, we must be direct and clear: the formation of the new government must reflect balance, inclusivity, and momentum toward the future. 

This requires your (Maliki's) public and official withdrawal from the premiership. This step is essential for a viable political consensus and a move toward restoring international confidence at a pivotal moment in the future of Iraq and the region. 

We believe your (Maliki's) voice will be valuable in selecting the next prime ministerial candidate. However, we must also be clear: failure to cooperate in facilitating this transition and forming the government as Washington sees fit will have consequences, and the United States will impose sanctions." Measures were taken against a number of Iraqi government institutions, as well as bodies, individuals and entities in Iraq .

As for the verbal message that Barak conveyed to Maliki, it included, according to informed political sources, that “Iraq has become completely subservient to Iran in recent years, and that the pro-Iranian militias in Iraq are the ones who control and lead the scene in Iraq, and that the United States spent billions of dollars on Iraq without gaining anything, and in return, Iran took control of it. Therefore, we will give you (Maliki) the option and opportunity for you and your team to participate in choosing the next prime minister and to have a role in Iraqi political life in the next stage, and you can be officially invited to the United States, but all of this is after you officially and publicly withdraw from the nomination for the position of prime minister of the next government.”

Sources confirmed that the US sanctions could be announced in the middle of next week, and will include pro-Iran figures, then leaders in the coordination framework, and possibly Maliki , all if the latter does not give up his candidacy for the next government .

American messages combine persuasion and intimidation

Regarding the American messages to Maliki, Essam Al-Faily, a professor of political science at Al-Mustansiriya University, confirmed that the American message of rejection of Maliki assuming the premiership is clear through the leaks of what was said in the meeting that brought the latter together with the American envoy .

Al-Faily told Al-Sa’a Network: “The American message is clear and combines enticement and intimidation, as Washington confirmed that Maliki is an unwelcome figure in the position of Prime Minister, but at the same time the United States appreciates Maliki’s role and left him the important role in choosing the candidate for the premiership after he withdrew his candidacy and stipulated that his candidate be far from the Iranian axis . ”

He added that "the American message confirms that Washington does not want figures close to Iran, based on its vision for the region and the new Middle East, as it is working to limit Iranian influence in Iraq by preventing Maliki from assuming the premiership on the one hand, and preventing any other figure close to the Iranian axis from assuming this position . "

Al-Faily pointed out that “Washington is very frank and serious about dealing with the same way it dealt with Maliki, as it will take the same position with any figure close to Iran in Iraq, and this necessitates that Iraqi politicians understand this American vision in dealing with the Iraqi and Iranian file during the next stage.”

Former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki expressed his rejection of what he described as blatant American interference in Iraq’s internal affairs, considering it a violation of the country’s sovereignty, in response to US President Donald Trump’s warning against Maliki’s return to the premiership .

This was preceded by the announcement of the Coordination Framework nominating Maliki for the premiership, in light of the results of the parliamentary elections in November 2025. However, Trump warned at the time that he would stop his country’s support for Iraq if Maliki assumed the position of Prime Minister .

Is there a time limit for the sanctions?

Regarding the existence of a time limit for imposing American sanctions on Iraq, researcher and  political analyst Ayed Al-Hilali said, “In light of the meeting that took place today between Tom Barrack and Nouri Al-Maliki, questions are escalating in political circles about the nature of the messages that the meeting carried, and whether it reflects a decisive American position rejecting Al-Maliki’s nomination for the premiership, in addition to what is being rumored about the existence of a time limit ending on Monday to resolve this issue . ”

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Al-Hilali added in a statement to Al-Sa’a Network: “The available data indicates that the meeting falls within the framework of normal diplomatic communication between Washington and the influential Iraqi political forces, especially in light of the political deadlock and internal complexities in which regional and international considerations are intertwined.”

He explained that the United States views the formation of the Iraqi government from the perspective of stability and ensuring that the country does not slide into new conflicts or sharp alignments that affect its strategic balances. Therefore, any messages conveyed during these meetings often relate to the specifications of the next stage and the form of the government, more than to an official declaration of rejection of a specific person.

Al-Hilali continued: “Regarding what is being circulated about a deadline ending on Monday, no official Iraqi body has yet announced a binding constitutional deadline at this time,” stressing that “the constitution does not stipulate a time limit for nominating a specific person outside the general frameworks for assigning the largest bloc, and therefore, talk of a deadline seems closer to political pressure or indirect messages aimed at accelerating understandings between the different forces, and not an official decision announced with a final date.”

Al-Hilali pointed out that “according to the political assessment, there may be American signals about the need to expedite the resolution to avoid further complications, but the final decision remains an internal Iraqi one, governed by the balance of power and understandings between the blocs. Therefore, the meeting and talk about the deadline reflect the level of sensitivity surrounding the stage, more than they indicate a decisive international decision that has been officially announced  link

📈 Dinar on the Rise: Are We Near the 1:1 Exchange?

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