Finding the Middle Ground in Iraq: Ali al-Zaidi's search for a path between Iran and the US in a time of war

Finding the Middle Ground in Iraq: Ali al-Zaidi's search for a path between Iran and the US in a time of war

Author: The New Arab July 30, 2026 Duration: 47:33

Iraq's new Prime Minster Ali al-Zaidi took his first foreign visit to the US, followed shortly after with a trip to Tehran. 

A political outsider and a surprise winner of the race to be prime minster, Ali al-Zaidi has a considerable inbox. And at the top is how to guide the country through the ongoing war between Iran and the US, its two closest allies. 

On top of this, al-Zaidi has launched a crackdown on corruption and his seeking to disarm the myriad of armed groups in the country. 

This week, we look at the new prime minster and how he came to office, his personal crusades, and the challenges he will face during this time of war. 

Joining us is Lahib Higel (@LahibHigel), Deputy Program Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the International Crisis Group (@CrisisGroup); and Renad Mansour (@renadmansour), Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Program at Chatham House (@ChathamHouse), and the Director of the Iraq Initiative at Chatham House.

This podcast is written and produced by Hugo Goodridge (@hugogoodridge).

Theme music by Omar al-Fil with additional music from Audio Network.

To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TNAPodcasts or email podcast@newarab.com

 

 

 

 


From a London newsroom, The New Arab Voice reaches across continents, offering a distinct perspective on events and ideas shaping communities from the Middle East and North Africa to Asia and global diasporas. This isn't just a headlines recap. Each episode weaves together rigorous news analysis, cultural insight, and historical context, treating complex political shifts and societal transformations with the depth they deserve. You'll hear from people living the stories-artists, analysts, and everyday voices-providing a nuanced understanding that moves beyond simplistic narratives. The podcast reflects the rich tapestry of the regions it covers, finding the connections between past and present, policy and personal experience. For listeners seeking to move past soundbites and explore the interplay of power, identity, and heritage, The New Arab Voice provides essential listening. It’s where current affairs meet deep storytelling, all grounded in the extensive journalistic tradition of The New Arab. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and illuminate the underreported, fostering a more informed and engaged perspective on a dynamic part of the world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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