Iraqi journalist alleges secret meeting between Maliki allies and Prime Minister's office

BAGHDAD, Iraq — An Iraqi journalist has claimed that a former prime minister and a commander of an armed group held a meeting to discuss political arrangements, allegations that could heighten tensions in Baghdad. The journalist, Amin Nasir, described the claims as "sensitive" and suggested the meeting could pave the way for the removal of certain officials from their positions. The report comes amid an intensifying exchange of accusations between supporters of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and the government of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidani, with each side blaming the other for political instability. No official statement has been issued by the Iraqi government, Maliki's office or the armed group in question regarding the alleged meeting or the broader claims. If confirmed, the allegations point to behind-the-scenes maneuvering that could reshape alliances within Iraq's already fractured political landscape. The lack of official comment has left the claims unverified, and no further details were immediately available.