Al-Zaidi's blank-slate background is exactly what Iraq needs right now — no political baggage means no entrenched loyalties to either Washington or Tehran. His government program prioritizes restricting weapons to state control, which is a bold move in a country where Iran-backed militias have operated freely for years. A fresh face with real economic credentials is a stronger foundation for reform than any career politician could offer.
Al-Zaidi's government limped into office with only 14 of 23 cabinet posts filled, and nine portfolios remain unresolved with no date set for a vote. U.S. opposition blocked militia-linked nominees, exposing how deeply Washington still controls Iraqi politics. A prime minister who can't even seat a full cabinet on day one is starting from a position of weakness, not reform.
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