U.S. envoy Mark Savaya is set to visit Iraq with a high-stakes agenda focused on curbing Iran-backed militias, reforming the banking sector, cutting off illicit financing, and influencing the formation of the next government to strengthen state authority and ensure stability.

The Shia Coordination Committee recently reached a near-agreement to nominate Nouri al-Maliki for a third term as Prime Minister.

The US attack on Caracas and the arrest of Maduro represent an opportunity for US energy companies and hedge funds to make further gains, while China and OPEC closely monitor developments in Venezuela.

Shiite forces within Iraq’s ruling Coordination Framework have reached an impasse over selecting a new PM, with both Nouri al-Maliki and current PM Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani firmly backing their own bids.

As Iraq weighs a new prime minister, attention has shifted to the Shiite Coordination Framework, where Ali al-Shukry is emerging as a leading compromise candidate for the top post.