Iraq Parliament approves 11 cabinet posts, including defence and interior ministers

Zaidi: Ali al-Zaidi is the Prime Minister of Iraq whose government took office in May with several cabinet vacancies. Parliament's approvals complete key posts in his administration amid ongoing political negotiations. Ahmed Rasheed: Ahmed Rasheed is a Reuters journalist specializing in Middle East reporting, particularly on Iraq. He contributed to the reporting on parliament's approval of the remaining cabinet positions. Muayad Hameed: Muayad Hameed is a Reuters correspondent focused on Iraq and regional developments. He co-reported the details of the parliamentary session approving cabinet nominees and deputy prime ministers. Iraq Parliament: Iraq Parliament is the legislative body responsible for approving government appointments and legislation in the country. In this news, it approved key remaining cabinet positions and deputy prime ministers to complete Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's government. Rosalba O'Brien: Rosalba O'Brien is a Reuters editor handling international news coverage. She edited the report on Iraq's parliament completing the Zaidi government's cabinet formation. Yasir al-Maliki: Yasir al-Maliki is an Iraqi official selected for a key interior security position. Parliament approved him as interior minister as part of filling vacant posts in the current government. Laith al-Khazali: Laith al-Khazali is a senior leader in the Iran-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq movement and brother of its prominent figure Qais al-Khazali. He was approved by parliament as one of three deputy prime ministers in the Zaidi government. Nayef al-Shammari: Nayef al-Shammari is an Iraqi political figure appointed to a senior security role. He was approved by parliament as defence minister in the completion of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's cabinet. Reform Priorities: Zaidi's administration has committed to economic reforms, anti-corruption efforts, and strengthening state institutions while navigating regional instability and the influence of armed groups. Government Completion: Iraq's parliament finalized most remaining appointments in Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's cabinet five months after it took office, addressing prolonged vacancies in key security roles. Militia Representation: The inclusion of Laith al-Khazali, linked to the US-designated Asaib Ahl al-Haq group, highlights the integration of Iran-aligned factions into senior government positions.