The KDP Bloc Shakhawan Abdullah said negotiations over Iraq’s new federal cabinet have largely concluded, but several political obstacles could still delay the parliamentary confidence vote.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah explained that talks on distributing ministries among Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish political forces have made significant progress. However, he warned that unresolved disputes continue to threaten the timeline for approving the new government.
The Kurdistan Democratic Party bloc currently holds 26 seats in Iraq’s 329-member parliament.
Abdullah also pointed to regional and international involvement in Iraq’s political process. He stated that foreign influence has remained a reality since 2003 and has affected the formation of successive Iraqi governments.
According to Abdullah, disagreements continue over the participation of certain factions in the incoming cabinet. His comments appeared to reference reported American opposition to including Iran-linked armed groups in the new government.
Several diplomatic sources previously told Shafaq News that U.S. officials had warned Iraqi leaders against appointing commanders affiliated with those factions. The sources said Washington cautioned that such appointments could expose Iraq to sanctions targeting state institutions and oil revenues.
Abdullah warned that failure to reach a political agreement by Tuesday night could postpone the parliamentary confidence session for several days.
Last week, Ali al-Zaidi submitted a 14-point ministerial program to Haibet Al-Halbousi ahead of the expected parliamentary vote on the new cabinet.
Under Article 76 of Iraq’s constitution, the prime minister-designate has 30 days from the date of nomination to form a government and secure parliamentary approval. Al-Zaidi received his nomination on April 27.
Political leaders in Baghdad continue negotiations as they attempt to finalize agreements and avoid further delays in forming Iraq’s next federal government.