Donald Trump Declares Ambition to 'Make Iraq Great Again' in Controversial Election Interference
Former US President Donald Trump has sparked significant controversy by declaring his desire to "make Iraq great again" in a recent online post, which critics have labelled as blatant interference in another nation's sovereign electoral process. The remarks were made on his social media platform, Truth Social, and come at a sensitive time as Iraq conducts its presidential election.
Trump's Direct Criticism of Potential Iraqi Leadership
In his post, Trump specifically targeted Nouri al-Maliki, a former Prime Minister of Iraq who is being considered for a return to power. "I'm hearing that the Great Country of Iraq might make a very bad choice by reinstalling Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister," Trump wrote. He went on to assert that "last time Maliki was in power, the Country descended into poverty and total chaos." Trump concluded with a stark warning, stating that if al-Maliki is elected, the United States will cease its assistance to Iraq, claiming the country would then have "ZERO chance of Success, Prosperity, or Freedom." He signed off with the provocative slogan: "MAKE IRAQ GREAT AGAIN!"
A Troubled History of US Interference in Iraqi Politics
This intervention follows a long and troubled history of US Presidents attempting to influence Iraqi leadership, efforts that have historically yielded disastrous and unintended consequences. Trump's decision to re-enter this fraught political arena has raised eyebrows among foreign policy analysts. It marks a continuation of his pattern of using Truth Social to comment on overseas elections, having previously made similar interventions regarding political contests in Argentina and Colombia. However, his direct commentary on Iraq is particularly notable given the complex and painful legacy of the US-led invasion in 2003 and subsequent nation-building efforts.
The Current Iraqi Political Landscape
The timing of Trump's comments is critical. Following Iraq's presidential election, the winner is expected to ask the nominee of the largest parliamentary party to form a government. A coalition of Shia blocs, which holds the majority, has put forward Nouri al-Maliki as their sole nominee. Al-Maliki, a 75-year-old politician, first became Prime Minister in 2006 during a period of intense instability following the invasion. He stepped down in 2014 after the Islamic State group seized large portions of the country. The Shia Coordination Framework has defended his nomination, citing his "political and administrative experience and his role in managing the state." Some observers suggest that Trump's public criticism may have limited practical impact at this late stage in the government formation process.
Broader Context of Trump's Political Activities
Trump is scheduled to deliver a speech at a rally in Iowa, where he is ostensibly expected to focus on domestic economic topics. Meanwhile, his political operation continues to engage in international diplomacy. Reports indicate that the Trump administration has formally notified Congress of initial steps to potentially reopen the shuttered US Embassy in Venezuela. This move is part of exploratory efforts to restore relations with the South American nation following the US military operation that removed former President Nicolás Maduro from power. This combination of domestic rallying and international manoeuvring underscores the ongoing and multifaceted nature of Trump's political influence, both within the United States and on the global stage.
