Iraq's dominant parliamentary bloc nominates businessman Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister

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Iraq's dominant parliamentary bloc has nominated businessman Ali al-Zaidi as the country's prime minister.

The Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shiite parties allied with Iran, made the announcement Monday after weeks of internal debate.

The coalition initially considered former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, but U.S. President Donald Trump opposed him, threatening to cut off aid to Iraq.

Al-Zaidi, a political newcomer, emerged as a compromise candidate.

He promises to focus on making Iraq “a balanced country, regionally and internationally.” The new government will face challenges like corruption and economic fallout from regional conflicts.

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