Maliki US ties essential appeared again in statements by Nouri al Maliki as he outlined his priorities if he becomes Iraq’s next prime minister. Maliki stressed that Baghdad must keep a stable relationship with the United States while managing its ties with Iran based on shared interests.
In a series of comments to AFP in Baghdad, Maliki discussed diplomacy, security, and weapons control. He said his government would protect all diplomatic missions and work to ensure that only the Iraqi state holds arms.
Maliki stresses importance of Iraq US relations
Maliki said that maintaining a constructive relationship with Washington is necessary for Iraq’s development. He rejected claims that his previous governments between 2006 and 2014 had poor ties with the United States.
He said Iraq seeks cooperation that supports stability and economic growth. He added that Baghdad’s relationship with Iran is based on mutual interests and respect for Iraq’s sovereignty.
Context of Iraq’s balancing act
Iraq continues to navigate relations with both Washington and Tehran. Maliki said that Baghdad will judge any partnership based on national interests. He emphasized that sovereignty must remain the guiding principle.
He noted that shared economic, religious, and geographic ties define Iraq’s connection with Iran while cooperation with the United States supports military, economic, and institutional development.
Maliki: attacks on diplomatic missions will not be tolerated
With recent US threats of strikes on Iran, Maliki said he will prevent any attack on foreign embassies or diplomatic facilities in Iraq if he becomes prime minister.
“All countries can be assured that we will prevent any violation against their embassies or officially recognised interests in Iraq,” he said. He affirmed that no group will be allowed to target states that maintain diplomatic missions in Baghdad or other Iraqi cities.
Iraq’s need for international confidence
Stability of diplomatic missions is considered essential for Iraq’s global reputation. Ensuring their protection also supports investment and foreign presence in the country.
Maliki said his government would impose strict measures to prevent unauthorized armed actions near embassies.
State monopoly on arms and possible agreements with factions
Maliki also addressed concerns about armed factions operating outside state control. He said he supports a full state monopoly over weapons, aligning with a long standing US demand and Iraqi public expectation.
“In fact, what America wants is not new. These are our demands. We want weapons in the hands of the state. We want a centralised military force,” he said.
Negotiations instead of confrontation
Maliki said that an understanding with pro Iran armed groups is possible. He noted that any deal must be achieved through dialogue rather than force.
“There is a good basis for understanding with the factions,” he said, adding that conflict would only complicate efforts to unify the security sector.
Key points on weapons and security reform
• Weapons must be held only by the state under one command
• Negotiations with factions should avoid escalation
• A unified military helps stabilize governance and diplomacy
Conclusion:
Maliki’s statements reflect an attempt to present himself as a candidate capable of balancing Iraq’s external relations while restoring internal security. His pledges touch on issues central to Iraq’s stability, including US ties, Iran relations, embassy protection, and weapons control.
