April 30, 2026 at 12:40 pm BAGHDAD (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump called Iraq’s new prime minister-designate Thursday and extended an invitation for him to visit Washington once he has successfully formed a government, the Iraqi prime minister’s office said in a statement. Trump then posted on his social media platform Truth Social congratulating Ali al-Zaidi and wishing him “success as he works to form a new Government free from terrorism that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq.” “We look forward to a strong, vibrant, and highly productive new relationship between Iraq and the United States,” the post said. “This is the beginning of a tremendous new chapter between our Nations — Prosperity, Stability, and Success like never seen before.” The call and post signal that Washington has given its blessing to al-Zaidi, a businessman and political newcomer, after Trump had announced his disapproval of a previous leading candidate for the post.…