Trump hosts Iraqi PM Zaidi as Iran war intensifies
President Donald Trump emphasized Iraq’s “tremendous oil reserves” and possible deals with US companies.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump heaped praise on Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, touting their “tremendous chemistry” during a bilateral meeting on Tuesday overshadowed by the reignited war with Iran.
"He's a great leader. I think he's going to be there for a long period of time," Trump said alongside Zaidi in the Oval Office. “Our relationship with Iraq went from being not so good to being outstanding.”
Zaidi, an Iraqi businessman and political newcomer, made the United States his first foreign visit since his swearing-in two months ago. It comes days after the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala held funeral proceedings for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed on the war’s opening day.
Tehran and Washington have vied for influence in Iraq since the US-led invasion toppled longtime Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003.
