Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), held a series of meetings with senior Iraqi political leaders in Baghdad that continued late into the night, focusing on key issues including the election of Iraq’s president, the nomination of the next prime minister and the formation of a new federal government.

Talabani said the PUK is prepared for the presidential vote and for completing constitutional procedures tied to forming the next government, emphasizing the need to move forward within the constitutional framework.

Meetings With Iraqi Political Leaders

Talabani met with Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the National Wisdom Movement, where both sides discussed the broader political landscape and steps toward forming a new government. During the meeting, Talabani stressed the importance of national dialogue and political consensus.

He also held talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The meeting, attended by Iraqi Minister of Justice Khalid Shwani, focused on coordination efforts aimed at forming what officials described as a service-oriented government that protects national interests.

In separate discussions with Hadi al-Amiri, leader of the Fatah Alliance, and Mohammed al-Halbousi, head of the Taqadum Party, participants discussed efforts to overcome political obstacles and convene a parliamentary session to elect the president. Both meetings highlighted the need to restore stability and ensure effective governance.

Late-Night Talks With Qais al-Khazali

Late-night talks were also held with Qais al-Khazali, secretary-general of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq. According to statements, the meeting addressed recent political developments and preparations for the presidential election, with both sides agreeing on the need to accelerate constitutional steps toward government formation.

Political Context and External Pressure

The meetings come amid ongoing political negotiations over Iraq’s next leadership. On Jan. 24, 2026, the Coordination Framework nominated former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki as a candidate for the premiership, a move that triggered strong reactions from Washington.

US President Donald Trump warned on Jan. 27 that US cooperation with Iraq could be affected if Maliki returns to office. Trump later said on Feb. 13 that Washington was assessing options regarding Iraq’s premiership and stressed that any future prime minister must work with the United States.