00:00The United States is warning Iraq against a pro-Iranian government as former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki emerges as a leading contender to return to office.
00:12Al-Maliki was forced to resign in 2014 after strong pressure from the United States.
00:17He has now been selected by Iraq's largest Shiite political bloc, putting him in the line to be nominated as Prime Minister.
00:25U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised the issue during a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani,
00:35warning that an Iran-controlled government could draw Iraq into wider regional conflicts and undermine its partnership with Washington.
00:43Maliki was widely seen as closely aligned with Iranian interests during his time in office.
00:48Iran-backed militias and political factions have long held significant influence in Iraq.
00:53Iraq's parliament is set to meet on Tuesday to elect a new president, who will then appoint a prime minister.
00:59While largely ceremonial, the role is seen as crucial in shaping the country's political direction.
Comments