U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday warned Iraqi political leaders against reinstating former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, saying such a decision could undermine Iraq’s stability and strain relations with Washington.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said he was “hearing that the great country of Iraq might make a very bad choice” by returning al-Maliki to power. He argued that Iraq “descended into poverty and total chaos” during al-Maliki’s previous time in office and cautioned that a renewed premiership would prompt the United States to reconsider its support for Baghdad.

Trump claimed that Iraq would have “zero chance of success, prosperity, or freedom” without U.S. backing, warning Iraqi leaders against what he described as repeating past mistakes. He concluded his message with the slogan: “Make Iraq Great Again.”

Trump’s remarks come amid renewed political maneuvering in Baghdad following an announcement by Iraq’s Coordination Framework, a major Shiite political alliance, that it had nominated al-Maliki for the post of prime minister.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Coordination Framework said the nomination followed an extensive leadership meeting held at the office of Hadi al-Amiri and was approved by a majority vote. The alliance cited al-Maliki’s experience in governance and his previous role in managing state affairs as reasons for its decision.

The bloc emphasized its commitment to fulfilling constitutional responsibilities, maintaining national stability, and advancing state-building efforts. It also expressed readiness to cooperate with all national political forces to form what it described as a strong and effective government capable of addressing Iraq’s ongoing challenges, improving public services, and safeguarding security and territorial integrity.