The "90th-Minute" Government: Al-Zaidi Confirmed as Iraq’s PM with an "Externally-Pleasing" Agenda...

BAGHDAD | In a move that has sparked widespread controversy, the Iraqi Parliament voted to grant confidence to Mr. Ali Falih Al-Zaidi and his "partial" cabinet (14 ministerial portfolios), amid deep questions regarding the nature and timing of his selection. Despite the significance of the event, Parliament defied legal norms by withholding the session’s broadcast. Meanwhile, Al-Zaidi has remained absent from any direct media appearances, relying solely on written statements and tweets—a move that has reinforced impressions of the new Prime Minister’s weak "communicative performance."

Key Highlights of the Sovereign Landscape:

* An External Agenda: The government program focused on "restricting arms to the state" and providing "security guarantees for foreign companies." Observers view these items as a direct response to Western demands (specifically Washington) aimed at neutralizing missile and drone capabilities. This is seen as an attempt to strip domestic factions of their "power cards" rather than focusing on tribal weaponry or organized crime.

* Media Seclusion: Initial leaks have highlighted Al-Zaidi’s lack of media training, explaining his strategy of "fleeing into silence" and avoiding direct press confrontations or public speeches thus far.

* A Divided Government: Parliament adjourned after postponing the vote on 9 ministerial portfolios, leaving the new government to face the challenge of balancing domestic political pressures with the dictates of "strategic partners" abroad.

Conclusion:

The Observer believes that Al-Zaidi’s government was born out of a last-minute compromise under intense international pressure, placing it under intense public scrutiny and making it a source of concern. The critical question remains: Will Al-Zaidi truly be a Prime Minister for Iraq, or will his role be confined to executing what has been planned behind the scenes?