Former Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi returned to Baghdad after two years in exile, despite security threats. Once targeted in a drone assassination attempt, his return comes at the request of current leaders amid a worsening economic crisis. Al-Kadhimi’s established international relations may be pivotal as Iraq heads toward parliamentary elections later this year, raising speculation about his potential political comeback.
Mustafa al-Kadhimi, the former Prime Minister of Iraq, returned to Baghdad on Tuesday after over two years abroad, despite ongoing security threats. His previous tenure ended amid significant regional tensions, notably after a failed assassination attempt in 2021 that targeted his residence with drones, attributed to escalated conflicts between Iranian-backed militias and the Iraqi government regarding parliamentary election results.
After leaving office in 2022, al-Kadhimi relocated to London and the United Arab Emirates. His recent return was at the invitation of current political leaders in Iraq, who are seeking to leverage his connections to address a growing economic crisis threatening Iraq’s stability.
Al-Kadhimi has established favorable relations with both the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, countries that Iraq seeks to strengthen ties with amid a changing regional landscape, particularly with Iran’s declining influence. During his administration, he facilitated critical discussions that eventually led to the restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia in 2023.
As Iraq prepares for parliamentary elections later this year, there is speculation regarding al-Kadhimi’s potential political resurgence, which could reshape the nation’s leadership dynamics following his previous experience as the country’s intelligence chief before becoming prime minister in 2020 following widespread protests that demanded government reform.
In summary, Mustafa al-Kadhimi’s return to Baghdad symbolizes a significant political moment in Iraq amid ongoing security concerns and a pressing economic crisis. Leveraging established international relations, particularly with the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, may be crucial for current leaders. With elections on the horizon, al-Kadhimi’s potential involvement could influence the country’s future political landscape.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
