The Iraqi power struggle continues to intensify as political divisions block a crucial leadership decision. The ruling Coordination Framework failed to nominate a prime minister candidate before the constitutional deadline expired at midnight. This delay highlights deep disagreements within Iraq’s dominant Shiite alliance and raises concerns about further instability.
Leaders within the bloc remain sharply divided, and negotiations have yet to produce a unified position. Mithaq Masari, a senior figure in the Badr Organization, confirmed that disagreements persist among key factions. He emphasized the need for mutual concessions, as competing interests continue to prevent consensus. Meanwhile, Ali al-Daffayi, spokesperson for the Islamic Supreme Council, stated that the nomination process requires several more days, signaling that talks will continue despite the missed deadline.
The crisis follows the election of Nizar Amedi as president on April 11. According to Iraq’s constitution, the president must task the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a government within 15 days. In this case, responsibility falls on the Coordination Framework. However, repeated meetings have failed to produce agreement, and a final session held late Sunday ended without a breakthrough.
The Iraqi power struggle has grown more complex due to both internal rivalries and external pressure. Earlier this year, Donald Trump publicly criticized the potential return of Nouri al-Maliki. He warned that Washington could reconsider its support if Maliki regained power. In response, Maliki rejected the remarks and denied any divisions among Shiite leaders. Despite this, his candidacy continues to divide the bloc, with some factions backing him while others push for a compromise figure.
At the same time, outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani appears to support alternative candidates. Reports suggest his allies continue to advance their own nominee, which has further complicated negotiations. Additionally, a phone call between Sudani and Marco Rubio introduced another layer of pressure. Rubio reportedly warned against forming a government perceived as aligned with Iran, reinforcing concerns about foreign influence in Iraq’s political process.
Two main candidates have emerged from the ongoing discussions. Baseem al-Badri represents Maliki’s State of Law Coalition, while Basim al-Awadi is backed by Sudani’s alliance. An internal vote within the 12-member Coordination Framework revealed a narrow split, with Badri securing seven votes and Awadi receiving five. This result underscores the fragile balance of power and explains why the bloc remains unable to finalize a nominee.
The Iraqi power struggle now enters a critical phase as delays continue to mount. Without a compromise candidate, the risk of prolonged political paralysis increases. As negotiations move forward, all eyes remain on whether the Coordination Framework can overcome its divisions and form a government in the coming days.
