Baghdad: Iraqi newspapers issued on Thursday emphasized the political focus on the criteria for selecting the next prime minister and ongoing negotiations about the future of international coalition forces in Iraq. The papers also noted directives from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani to the Ministry of Electricity.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sabah newspaper reported that political circles are concentrating on establishing clear criteria for selecting the new head of government. This step is considered crucial for forming a strong cabinet capable of leading a sensitive phase requiring political cohesion and effective governance to address longstanding issues.
The paper quoted Dr. Ali Al-Dafa’i, spokesperson for the Islamic Supreme Council, who emphasized that forming the government must be a national decision, free from external and regional interference. He highlighted that the Coordination Framework has set five key standards for nominating a prime minister, including independence from political parties and adherence to the Framework’s decisions as the largest parliamentary bloc. Other criteria include forming a professional and neutral team for the Prime Minister’s Office and presenting a clear vision to tackle national challenges and safeguard Iraq’s sovereignty.
Al-Dafa’i also noted that negotiations among political blocs are progressing smoothly, with efforts to bridge the gap between Kurdish parties and unify the stance within the Sunni component. These moves could accelerate government formation within constitutional deadlines.
Meanwhile, political analyst Mahmoud Al-Hashimi told Al-Sabah about the need for precise standards in selecting the prime minister, given the extensive executive powers granted by the constitution. He warned against foreign interference, which could undermine the democratic process and compromise Iraqi voters’ will.
Al-Zaman newspaper focused on negotiations regarding the future of the international coalition forces in Iraq. Deputy Commander of Joint Operations, Lt. Gen. Qais Al-Mohammadawi, revealed that discussions will begin next January within a joint security committee.
The newspaper reported that Al-Mohammadawi stated the international coalition has effectively ended operations across Iraqi territories per the agreement with Baghdad, leaving only a few personnel for logistical and diplomatic tasks. All other coalition forces are based within the Kurdistan Region.
He added that a joint security committee, including top military officials, will launch negotiations with the United States from January to June next year. These talks aim to draft a memorandum determining the number of U.S. personnel remaining in Iraq, alongside a security and intelligence cooperation agreement.
Al-Mohammadawi confirmed that the memorandum and agreement will be signed exclusively with the United States, not the international coalition. The U.S. continues to provide maintenance for F-16 aircraft and training for Iraqi pilots, with air capability enhancement a key component of the forthcoming agreement.
Al-Zawraa newspaper, issued by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, reported on Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s instructions to the Ministry of Electricity for early preparations for next summer’s power-supply plan to improve electricity availability and reduce citizens’ hardships during peak demand.
The newspaper stated that Al-Sudani chaired a meeting to discuss adopting smart solutions in renewable energy management, specifically solar power and smart meters, in Baghdad’s districts and sub-districts. The meeting included key officials and representatives from various ministries and districts.
According to an official statement, the meeting reviewed renewable energy projects and proposed investment mechanisms to achieve targeted production levels. Discussions focused on solar-energy expansion plans based on studies identifying the most suitable areas in Baghdad for sunlight exposure.
Al-Zawraa further reported the Prime Minister’s commitment to developing the electricity sector, emphasizing the necessity of early preparations for summer 2025. The government has taken multiple measures to secure power supply, adopting new contracting models and reform measures in investment and procurement to increase production and improve service delivery to citizens.