Donald Trump claims Iraq's PM Sudani nominated him for Nobel Peace Prize

US President Donald Trump's statement that Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize has created political debate in Baghdad. The timing of the disclosure could affect Sudani's prospects for a second term as he receives criticism from Iran-aligned factions.

Trump's comment came at a press conference in the White House, and in response to a question by Rudaw, about last week's drone attack on the Khor Mor gas field in the Kurdistan Region and whether his administration would provide the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) with air-defence and anti-drone systems.

 "We will look at it," Trump said. He also claimed Iraq became "much friendlier" after the US destroyed Iran's "nuclear capability," and said Sudani nominated him "along with about 78 other countries" for the Nobel Prize.

Following Trump's comments, Iran-aligned militias and political factions expressed opposition, describing the timing as significant ahead of the anniversary of the US strike that killed Qassem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis near Baghdad airport on 3 January 2020.

Trump's claim may affect Sudani politically, as parties from Iraq's 11 November election are currently negotiating to form a new cabinet. The alleged nomination might harm Sudani’s chances of being re-elected. This is because Trump is seen as an opponent of the Coordination Framework and its allies, especially after he ordered the 2020 airport strike.

Sudani, noting the timing of the disclosure, posted on X on Wednesday that "friendship, not hostility, ensures our country's stability, growth and prosperity," emphasising his focus on Iraq's national interest over personal ambition.

Washington has increased pressure on Baghdad to control Iran-aligned militias operating beyond state authority. Mark Savaya, Trump's envoy to Iraq, wrote on X that Iraq could play a "bigger and more influential role" by disarming non-state actors and strengthening state authority.

The US Embassy in Baghdad said on 2 December that Deputy Secretary Michael Riga had "productive discussions" with Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on strengthening ties. It reiterated that Iran-backed groups "undermine Iraq's sovereignty, threaten Americans and Iraqis, and steal Iraqi resources for Iran."

Akram al-Kaabi, secretary-general of Harakat al-Nujaba, a Popular Mobilisation Forces faction, issued a direct threat to US envoy Mark Savaya, accusing him of treason against Iraq and criticising the Iraqi government and ruling parties for remaining silent on what he described as interference in Iraq’s internal affairs.

"If you do not silence him, the Islamic Resistance will shove a stone into his mouth," al-Kaabi added.