The Coordination Framework, Iraq's largest parliamentary bloc, has named Ali Al-Zaidi as its nominee for prime minister.
In a statement carried by the state news agency INA, the bloc said it held an "important" meeting at the government palace in Baghdad, describing the venue as "symbolic of the continuity of state institutions."
During the meeting, bloc leaders hailed the performance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government over the past three and a half years.
The bloc said the withdrawal of other candidates reflects a "commitment to higher national interests" and helps in "enabling the Coordination Framework to select a candidate meeting the requirements of the premiership."
In a separate statement, the Iraqi presidency confirmed that President Nizar Amidi tasked Ali Al-Zaidi with forming the new government.
Sudani affirmed his keenness to cooperate with Al-Zaidi during the assignment period to complete the requirements for government formation.
Who is Ali Al-Zaidi?
Al-Zaidi, a Baghdad native, has brought extensive academic and executive experience to the premiership, holding a master's degree in finance and Banking alongside degrees in Law and Finance.
He served as the Chairman of the National Holding Company and previously led the board of the South Bank.
His professional career also included serving as chair of the boards of Al-Shaab University and the Ishtar Medical Institute.
Al-Zaidi outlined a vision focused on institutional reform, economic sustainability, and youth empowerment, vowing to transform national resources into "tangible achievements" for the Iraqi people.
The Coordination Framework remains the largest bloc in parliament, holding between 130 and 140 seats out of 329.
Under Iraq's constitution, the prime minister-designate must form a cabinet within 30 days of being assigned and securing a vote of confidence from parliament.
