Over 180 Iraqi lawmakers sign memorandum backing Interior Minister Shammari

BAGHDAD, Iraq — More than 180 Iraqi lawmakers have signed a memorandum calling for Interior Minister Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir al-Shammari to remain in his post, reflecting broad parliamentary support as government formation talks continue. Supporters cite Shammari’s record in strengthening border security, developing security coordination mechanisms and launching digital transformation projects within the Interior Ministry. They also point to the ministry’s handling of complex security files in recent years as evidence of his performance. The debate over the Interior Ministry portfolio has resurfaced during ongoing negotiations over forming the next government. One camp argues that merit and professional experience should guide senior appointments, while others maintain that political balances remain the determining factor. Public discussion has framed the dispute as a broader test of whether Iraq’s political class will prioritize competence in filling senior positions. No further details on the memorandum or the cabinet negotiations were immediately available.