BAGHDAD — After remaining abroad for over two years, former Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi made his return to Baghdad on Tuesday, despite persisting security threats against him.
In 2021, al-Kadhimi narrowly escaped an assassination attempt where two armed drones targeted his residence situated in the Green Zone of Baghdad. The incident elevated tensions following the refusal of Iran-backed militias to accept the parliamentary election outcomes. This turbulent period highlighted the challenges faced by al-Kadhimi during his tenure.
Since the conclusion of his term as prime minister in 2022, al-Kadhimi has spent time residing in London and the United Arab Emirates. Upon his recent return to Iraq, he has yet to issue any public statements.
Officials associated with the former prime minister, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to restrictions on public disclosure, have confirmed ongoing security threats. Al-Kadhimi’s return is attributed to an invitation from current Iraqi political leaders who are hopeful that his connections might be instrumental in addressing an escalating economic crisis threatening the country’s stability.
Al-Kadhimi enjoys favorable relations with both the United States and Saudi Arabia, a factor that Iraq currently seeks to leverage in enhancing ties with these nations. Amidst recent regional upheavals, Iran finds itself in a diminished position, thereby opening new diplomatic avenues for Iraq.
During his tenure as prime minister, al-Kadhimi facilitated a series of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Baghdad, playing a role in the reconciliation that saw the two regional adversaries restore diplomatic relations in 2023 after seven years of discord. Prior to his premiership in 2020, he served as Iraq’s intelligence chief, gaining prominence following mass protests that led to the downfall of the preceding government.
With parliamentary elections scheduled in Iraq later this year, there is speculation that al-Kadhimi might be positioning himself for a political resurgence.
