Iraq’s ruling coalition will meet today to address the worsening political deadlock that has stalled key government decisions. Top leaders aim to find a compromise to move forward with electing the nation’s next president and prime minister. The meeting comes after the constitutional deadline passed, increasing pressure on political blocs to act swiftly.
The deadlock mainly involves two major Kurdish parties: the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. Both parties have struggled to agree on a single presidential candidate. Negotiations and mediation efforts have so far failed to resolve the disagreement. Meanwhile, the Shiite political camp hesitates over leadership choices, keeping former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki as a candidate for the premier position.
Washington recently opposed Maliki’s potential return, complicating the coalition’s decision-making and adding external pressure. Current Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani will chair the meeting. Senior Kurdish leaders Nechirvan Barzani and Bafel Talabani will also attend. Other major party leaders are expected to join, as all sides seek a solution to the leadership impasse.
A source familiar with the meeting said the coalition must address the stalled candidate selection process. This delay has blocked completion of constitutional obligations. Traditionally, the presidency goes to a Kurdish politician, but parliament missed the January deadline. The Kurdistan Democratic Party supports Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, while the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan backs former minister Nizar Amedi. This shows the continuing partisan disagreement.
Incumbent President Abdul Latif Rashid continues to run as an independent candidate. A Kurdish opposition lawmaker remains in the race as well. The Shiite Coordination Framework confirmed its support for Maliki, despite American opposition. Former President Trump criticized Maliki’s past policies, warning Washington could withdraw support if he returned. This adds pressure to coalition talks and intensifies the deadlock.
Sunday’s meeting could shape Iraq’s immediate political future. Unresolved leadership questions continue to block state operations and legislative progress. Leaders aim to form a functional government that satisfies both domestic and international stakeholders. Breaking the deadlock is crucial to restore stability, ensure governance continuity, and protect Iraq’s political institutions.
