Nouri Kamil Mohammed Hasan al-Maliki (born 20 June 1950) is an Iraqi politician who served as the Prime minister of Iraq from May 2006 until August 2014. He took office following Ibrahim al-Jaafari and was succeeded by Haider al-Abadi.

Background and rise

Al-Maliki emerged as a prominent figure in post-2003 Iraqi politics through his leadership within major Shi'a political groupings and his role in forming governing coalitions. During his tenure he led the State of Law coalition and was closely associated with the Islamic Dawa Party. His political influence grew as Iraq moved from occupation and insurgency toward a series of national elections and attempts at institutional reconstruction.

Time as prime minister (2006–2014)

Al-Maliki's administration presided over a turbulent period in Iraq’s recent history. His governments faced ongoing security challenges, sectarian violence, and the task of rebuilding state institutions. Under his premiership the majority of U.S. combat troops left Iraq in 2011, after which responsibility for security and governance rested primarily with Iraqi institutions. In 2014 the rapid territorial gains by the Islamic State (IS) exposed weaknesses in the Iraqi security forces and contributed to a change in political leadership.

Assessment and controversies

Observers and political opponents have offered mixed assessments of al-Maliki’s record. Supporters credit him with strengthening central authority and navigating complex coalition politics. Critics argue his approach concentrated power in the prime minister’s office and deepened sectarian divisions, and he has faced allegations of cronyism and mismanagement. Such criticisms were a prominent part of the debate over Iraq’s political direction during and after his time in office.

After leaving office

After stepping down in August 2014, al-Maliki remained an active figure in Iraqi politics, continuing to influence parliamentary politics and party organization. His period as prime minister remains an important reference point in discussions about Iraq’s security, governance, and intercommunal relations.

  • Office: Prime Minister of Iraq (May 2006 – August 2014)
  • Predecessor: Ibrahim al-Jaafari
  • Successor: Haider al-Abadi