Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces, Mr. Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, visited the Ministry of Defense on Sunday, where he was received by Chief of Staff of the Army, Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah.
Upon his arrival, Mr. al-Zaidi chaired a meeting with several military commanders and senior officers of the Ministry. He received a detailed briefing on the Ministry's plans and the security situation in the military units, each according to their duties and specialization.
During the meeting, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces approved the promotions list for military officers, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that army officers receive their due promotions.
He further commended their efforts and the efforts of all officers and personnel who represent the shield and support of the nation, the Iraqi Ministry of Defense said in a statement.
His Excellency affirmed that the government is giving great attention to developing the Iraqi army into a strong, professional force whose fundamental doctrine is the protection of Iraq and its people, and which is capable of performing its duties to the fullest extent. He stated that everything the military institution needs to enhance its capabilities will be provided, noting that the pride and dignity of nations lie in the strength of their armies.
Mr. Al-Zaydi stressed that no weapons would be allowed to remain outside the framework of the law and the state, affirming the commitment to combating corruption and eliminating its sources, and to building a state governed by the rule of law and justice, where citizens enjoy security and stability.
On 16 May 2026, Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi officially assumed office as Prime Minister (PM) and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Iraqi News Agency (INA) then reported.
Al Zaidi holds three academic degrees - a Bachelor’s degree in Law and a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Finance and Banking - and has developed his career in the private sector.
His membership in the Iraqi Bar Association formally ties him to the legal profession, although he has not been known to practice law in the public sector. His chairmanship of the board of directors of the National Holding Company, also known as Al Wataniya Holding, a major private investment group active in various sectors, has allowed the newly elected prime minister to build a solid network of relationships, moving between the worlds of investment and politics.
Al Zaidi has also held management roles at Al Shaab University and the Ishtar Medical Institute. He also served as Chairman of Al Janoob Islamic Bank for Investment and Finance, one of Iraq’s largest private financial institutions. (Sources: Iraq’s Ministry of Defense; INA; Agencies; Photo © Iraq’s Ministry of Defense)
