The Coordination Framework stresses political unity as Iraq navigates ongoing leadership disputes.
On Monday, the Shiite Coordination Framework called on the two major Kurdish parties to resolve the presidency issue. The statement highlighted the bloc’s dedication to political unity but did not mention the nomination of Nouri al-Maliki.
The framework, composed of Shiite parties backing the current government, met at the office of Sheikh Hammam Hamoudi on February 23. During their 263rd meeting, leaders reviewed recent political developments and emphasized maintaining the cohesion of their bloc. They described their approach as a continuation of honoring voter trust, reflecting the framework’s commitment to political unity.
The statement urged the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) to reach a joint decision. Senior Kurdish leader Hoshyar Zebari noted a “positive atmosphere” in discussions between KDP leader Masoud Barzani and PUK leader Bafel Talabani.
Zebari added that the KDP requested the Coordination Framework to allow Kurds to select the presidency, keeping Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein as a candidate.
Zebari also highlighted challenges for the next president, saying assigning Nouri al-Maliki to form the government would be difficult. The stalled nomination of Maliki remains a central obstacle in forming Iraq’s government. The Coordination Framework nominated him after the 2025 elections, but both internal debate and external pressure have delayed progress.
Washington signaled its concern shortly after Maliki’s nomination. U.S. officials hinted at potential sanctions on individuals and institutions if the nomination proceeded. Efforts to arrange a meeting between Maliki and U.S. envoy Tom Barrack faced scheduling conflicts, and conflicting reports emerged about the cause. Barrack later stressed the importance of leadership aligned with Iraq’s stabilization goals. Maliki, meanwhile, confirmed he will not step down voluntarily.
In addition to domestic issues, the Coordination Framework reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to international resolutions. Particularly, Resolution 833, and to build strong regional and global relationships. They also emphasized Iraq’s rights regarding national entitlements, including maritime boundaries registered with the United Nations.
On U.S.-Iran tensions, the framework urged dialogue and cited the “positive negotiating climate in Geneva.”
