Overview
- In an AFP interview, Nouri al-Maliki said he will not withdraw his candidacy, citing Iraqi sovereignty and the Coordination Framework’s backing.
- Maliki pledged “one army under one command,” urged armed factions to lay down weapons to participate in government, and vowed to protect foreign embassies.
- President Donald Trump has warned the United States would end assistance to Iraq if Maliki becomes prime minister, according to reporting on his ultimatum.
- Government formation remains stalled as parties wrangle over the presidency and next steps, with Kurdish parties still divided on a candidate, recent reports say.
- U.S. Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack met Iraqi leaders in Baghdad on Feb. 22–23, and Iraqi media reported the Coordination Framework plans a decisive meeting by Feb. 27.