PM Modi Congratulates Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as the Prime Minister of Iraq on 16 May 2026. Al-Zaidi took office after being sworn in during a parliamentary session on 14 May 2026.

Iraq’s Political System

Iraq is a federal parliamentary republic in West Asia. The Prime Minister is the head of government, while the President is the head of state. The Council of Representatives is Iraq’s unicameral legislature and plays a central role in government formation.

Government Formation in Iraq

Iraq’s Parliament approved a partial cabinet of 14 ministers and the government programme on 14 May 2026. Votes on the remaining portfolios were delayed because of ongoing negotiations. Cabinet formation in Iraq often involves coalition bargaining among political blocs.

Coordination Framework and Political Alliances

The Coordination Framework is an influential alliance of Shia political parties in Iraq. It nominated Al-Zaidi in April 2026 to resolve a political deadlock. The nomination followed internal discussions and a meeting in Baghdad at the residence of Popular Mobilisation Forces leader Falih al-Fayyad.

Important Facts for Exams

• Iraq became a federal parliamentary republic after the 2005 Constitution came into force.
• The Prime Minister of Iraq heads the executive branch and forms the cabinet.
• The Popular Mobilisation Forces are an umbrella of armed groups formed in Iraq in 2014.
• Social media platform X was formerly known as Twitter.

India-Iraq Relations

India and Iraq maintain diplomatic relations and cooperation in energy, trade, and people-to-people contacts. India has a large diaspora in West Asia, and Iraq remains relevant for India’s energy security and regional engagement.