Famous Iraqi Leaders

Abd al-Karim Qasim was an Iraqi military officer and nationalist who rose to power in 1958 following the overthrow of the Iraqi monarchy in the 14 July Revolution. He served as the prime minister until his downfall and execution during the 1963 Ramadan Revolution. Qasim was widely recognized as "The Leader" during his rule, known for his strong leadership and nationalist ideals. His professional life was marked by his military background, political leadership, and efforts to assert Iraqi sovereignty and independence.

Hajj ʿAbdul Rahman Mohammed ʿArif al-Jumayli was an Iraqi military officer and politician who served as the third president of Iraq from 16 April 1966 to 17 July 1968. He had a distinguished professional career marked by his military service and political leadership. Prior to his presidency, he held various military positions, demonstrating his commitment to his country's defense and security. As president, he played a key role in shaping Iraq's political landscape during a critical period in the nation's history.

Ur-Nammu, a prominent ruler in ancient Mesopotamia, founded the Sumerian Third Dynasty of Ur following periods of Akkadian and Gutian rule. Known for his military conquests, he established the Ur III Empire and constructed numerous temples and canals. His most enduring legacy is the renowned Code of Ur-Nammu, the oldest surviving legal code in the world. Holding titles such as "King of Ur" and "King of Sumer and Akkad," Ur-Nammu was a revered leader whose professional life was marked by military accomplishments and legal contributions.

Adnan Khairallah was an Iraqi military officer who held several titles and served as the Defence Minister of Iraq. He was a key figure in the Iraqi Revolutionary Command Council and played a significant role in the leadership of the country. His professional career was marked by his close association with Saddam Hussein, his brother-in-law, and cousin. His tenure as Defence Minister was notable for his involvement in military and strategic decision-making, shaping Iraq's defense policies during a tumultuous period in the country's history.

Al-Hādī was the fourth Arab Abbasid caliph, succeeding his father al-Mahdi. He ruled for a short period marked by internal chaos and power struggles with his mother. Despite his brief reign, Al-Hādī faced challenges in maintaining stability and authority within the Abbasid Caliphate. His professional life was characterized by efforts to navigate political complexities and consolidate power, ultimately facing difficulties in securing his position as caliph.

Rashid Ali al-Gaylani was an Iraqi politician who served as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Iraq on three occasions. He was known for his strong Arab nationalist views and his efforts to remove British influence from Iraq. Al-Gaylani led a coup against the government in 1941 and attempted to negotiate with the Axis powers during World War II to counter British influence. His tenure was marked by political turmoil and his attempts to assert Iraq's independence in the face of external pressures.

Ayad Allawi is an Iraqi politician with a significant career in government. He served as interim prime minister of Iraq from 2004 to 2005 and later as vice president of Iraq. Allawi played a key role in the post-Saddam Hussein era, becoming Iraq's first head of government after the invasion in 2003. He is a prominent figure in Iraqi politics, having been a member of the Iraq Interim Governing Council and co-founding the Iraqi National Accord political party.

Mustafa Barzani, known as Mullah Mustafa, was a Kurdish leader and general highly influential in modern Kurdish politics. He served as the leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) from 1946 and led the Kurdish revolution against the Kingdom of Iraq. Barzani was a key figure in Kurdish politics, leading armed insurgencies against the Iraqi and Iranian governments until his death in 1979. He played a significant role as both a political and military leader in the Kurdish struggle for autonomy and independence.

Nouri al-Maliki is an Iraqi politician and leader of the Islamic Dawa Party. He served as Prime Minister of Iraq from 2006 to 2014 and Vice President from 2014 to 2015 and again from 2016 to 2018. Al-Maliki began as a Shia dissident against Saddam Hussein, leading the Islamic Dawa Party in exile. He worked closely with the US during and after the Iraq occupation, facing allegations of corruption, empowering Shia militias, and fueling sectarian violence.

Shalmaneser III ruled as king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, succeeding his father Ashurnasirpal II. Throughout his reign, he led numerous military campaigns against various eastern tribes, Babylonians, and nations in Mesopotamia and Syria. He extended his empire's reach to Lake Van and the Taurus Mountains, imposing tribute on the Neo-Hittites of Carchemish and subduing the kingdoms of Hamath and Aram Damascus. Shalmaneser III's annals from the 850s BC mark the first recorded appearances of Arabs and Chaldeans in history.

Jalal Talabani was an Iraqi politician who served as the sixth president of Iraq from 2005 to 2014 and as the president of the Governing Council of Iraq. He was the founder and secretary-general of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), one of the main Kurdish political parties. Talabani played a key role in the Interim Iraq Governing Council post the 2003 invasion, advocating for Kurdish rights and democracy in Iraq for over 50 years.

Uday Saddam Hussein was an Iraqi politician who held various positions as a sports chairman, military officer, and businessman. He was the head of the Iraqi Olympic Committee, Iraq Football Association, and the Fedayeen Saddam. Initially seen as the likely successor to his father, Saddam Hussein, Uday eventually lost the position as heir apparent to his younger brother, Qusay, due to injuries sustained in an assassination attempt. Known for his ruthless and intimidating behavior, Uday was involved in alleged crimes such as rape, murder, and torture, targeting both adversaries and acquaintances.

Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr was an Iraqi politician and military officer who served as the fourth president of Iraq from 1968 to 1979. He was a prominent member of the Ba'ath Party and played a key role in various political events, including the 14 July Revolution and the 17 July Revolution. During his tenure, Iraq experienced economic growth, implemented land reforms, and established a socialist economy with the assistance of his cousin, Saddam Hussein. Al-Bakr eventually resigned from public office in 1979 and passed away in 1982.

Qusay Hussein was an Iraqi politician and military leader who served as his father's heir apparent and was in charge of the Republican Guard, a key branch of the Iraqi military. He played a significant role in maintaining his father's regime, overseeing security forces, and suppressing dissent within the country. His authority and influence within the Iraqi government grew over time, positioning him as a key figure in the inner circle of power. Ultimately, he met his demise in a U.S. raid in Mosul.

Raghad Hussein is an Iraqi individual with experiences in various professional endeavors. She has been involved in public speaking engagements and has made appearances at events discussing political issues and advocating for causes. Raghad has also been active in media interviews, sharing insights on current affairs and providing commentary on matters related to her background and experiences. Additionally, she has engaged in activities aimed at raising awareness about social, cultural, and political issues in Iraq and the Middle East.

Ibrahim al-Jaafari is an Iraqi politician who served as Prime Minister of Iraq from 2005 to 2006 in the Iraqi Transitional Government. He was also a Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2014 to 2018. Prior to his role as Prime Minister, he was one of the two Vice Presidents of Iraq under the Iraqi Interim Government from 2004 to 2005. Additionally, he was the main spokesman for the Islamic Dawa Party and withdrew his nomination for premiership for the permanent government.

Nuri Pasha al-Said was a prominent Iraqi politician who served in key cabinet positions and held the position of Prime Minister of Iraq eight times. He played a significant role in Iraq's political landscape during the Mandatory Iraq and Hashemite Kingdom periods. Known for negotiating important agreements, such as the 1930 Anglo-Iraqi Treaty and the profit-sharing agreement with the Iraq Petroleum Company in the fifties, Nuri was a controversial figure with a blend of Iraqi nationalism, conservatism, and pro-western views. His career ended with his capture and death following a 1958 coup d'état in Iraq.

Muhammad Saeed al-Sahhaf is an Iraqi former diplomat and politician who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1992 to 2001. He gained worldwide attention during the 2003 invasion of Iraq when he was the Minister of Information under Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Known as Baghdad Bob or Comical Ali, he acted as the spokesperson for the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party and Saddam's government, delivering notable and colorful television appearances. His role as the Information Minister of Iraq during this period became iconic for his unique style and approach.

Saddam Hussein was an Iraqi politician and revolutionary who served as the fifth president of Iraq from 1979 to 2003. He also held the position of prime minister from 1979 to 1991 and later from 1994 to 2003. Saddam was a key member of the Ba'ath Party and played a significant role in Iraqi politics, including nationalizing the Iraq Petroleum Company and leading the country through the Iran–Iraq War and the Gulf War. His regime was marked by authoritarianism and repression, resulting in widespread human rights abuses.

Shalmaneser V was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, reigning from 727 BC to 722 BC. He is known for his conquest of Samaria and the fall of the Kingdom of Israel. Shalmaneser V campaigned extensively in the lands west of Assyria, engaging in wars against Israelites, Phoenician city-states, and Anatolian kingdoms. Despite successfully annexing some territories, his reign was marked by prolonged sieges and unresolved conflicts. His deposition and death were likely violent, leading to uncertainty regarding his legitimate heir and the end of the Adaside dynasty's rule over Assyria.

Ahmed Abdel Hadi Chalabi was an Iraqi politician who founded the Iraqi National Congress (INC) and served as President of the Governing Council of Iraq and Deputy Prime Minister. He was interim Minister of Oil in Iraq and faced scrutiny for his role in providing false information regarding Saddam Hussein's regime and its alleged weapons of mass destruction. Chalabi's shifting allegiances, including accusations of working for Iran, led to a falling out with the US government and his involvement in the Petra Bank scandal further tarnished his reputation.

Tariq Aziz was an Iraqi politician who served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs under President Saddam Hussein. He was a prominent figure in the Ba'ath Party and represented Iraq at international diplomatic summits due to Hussein's security concerns. Following the 2003 invasion of Iraq, he was captured by American forces and later held in prison by the new Iraqi government. Aziz was acquitted of some charges but ultimately found guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced to prison, later commuted to indefinite imprisonment until his death in 2015.

Barzan Ibrahim al-Tikriti was a key figure in Iraqi intelligence as a leader of the Mukhabarat. Despite facing a period of falling out with Saddam Hussein, he later regained favor and became a close presidential adviser. His professional career was marked by his involvement in intelligence operations and his role as a trusted adviser to Saddam Hussein. However, his career came to an end when he was captured by U.S. forces in 2003 and later hanged for crimes against humanity in 2007.

Muqtada al-Sadr is an Iraqi Shia Muslim cleric, politician, and militia leader. He leads the Sadrist Movement and the Peace Companies, a successor to the Mahdi Army. Known for his involvement in Iraqi politics, he joined the Saairun alliance in 2018, which achieved success in the 2018 and 2021 Iraqi parliamentary elections. Al-Sadr's leadership has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Iraq, particularly within the context of post-American military presence in the country.

Izzat Ibrahim al-Douri was an Iraqi politician and army field marshal who served as Vice Chairman of the Iraqi Revolutionary Command Council under President Saddam Hussein. He was a key advisor and deputy to Hussein, and later led the Iraqi insurgent group Naqshbandi Army. Al-Douri evaded capture after the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq and continued to lead elements of the insurgency against occupation forces. He was confirmed as the new leader of the banned Iraqi Ba'ath Party following Hussein's execution.

Ali Hassan al-Majid was an Iraqi military officer and politician under Saddam Hussein, serving as defence minister, interior minister, and head of the Iraqi Intelligence Service. He was also the governor of Kuwait during the 1990–91 Gulf War. Known as "Chemical Ali," he gained notoriety for his role in repressive campaigns against Kurdish and Shia rebels, including the use of chemical weapons. Captured after the 2003 invasion of Iraq, he was convicted of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, ultimately being sentenced to death and executed in 2010.

Haider al-Abadi is an Iraqi politician with a background in government service. He served as Minister of Communication from 2003 to 2004 before becoming Prime Minister of Iraq from September 2014 to October 2018. He was appointed to the position by President Fuad Masum in 2014 and approved by the Iraqi parliament. Al-Abadi played a significant role in the War in Iraq, declaring victory against ISIL. He was recognized as one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2018.

Mohammed Hadid was an Iraqi economist and democracy advocate who served as the Minister of Finance of Iraq from 1958 to 1960. He played a key role in shaping the economic policies of the country during his tenure. Hadid's expertise in finance and his advocacy for democracy made him a prominent figure in Iraqi politics. His contributions to the economic development and governance of Iraq had a lasting impact on the country's history.

Masoud Barzani is a prominent Kurdish politician known for his long-standing leadership in the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) since 1979. He has played a key role in Kurdish politics, serving as President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from 2005 to 2017. Barzani's political career has been characterized by his commitment to advancing Kurdish interests and advocating for greater autonomy for the Kurdish people. He has been instrumental in shaping the political landscape of the region and promoting Kurdish rights on the international stage.

Qutayba ibn Muslim was an Arab commander of the Umayyad Caliphate who served as governor of Khurasan. He distinguished himself in the conquest of Transoxiana, expanding the Caliphate's borders and consolidating Muslim rule in the region. Qutayba was known for his military prowess, administrative skills, and strategic leadership. He successfully conquered various territories, including Tokharistan, Bukhara, Khwarizm, and Sogdiana, extending Muslim control into the Jaxartes valley and Fergana Valley. Despite his achievements, his conquests were largely lost after his death, eventually being restored in the 740s and solidified after the Battle of Talas in 751.

Tiglath-Pileser I was a prominent king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian period, known for his military prowess, extensive building projects, and interest in collecting cuneiform tablets. He strategically expanded Assyrian control into Anatolia, Syria, and the Mediterranean region, solidifying Assyria as the dominant power in the Ancient Near East for centuries to come. His reign was marked by a focus on documenting his military campaigns, culminating in comprehensive "summary texts" intended to preserve his achievements and legacy for future rulers.

Abdul Salam Mohammed ʿArif al-Jumayli was the second president of Iraq, serving from 1963 until his death in a plane crash in 1966. He played a prominent role in the 14 July Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the Hashemite monarchy in 1958. Arif was a key figure in Iraq's political landscape, known for his leadership and influence during his presidency. His tenure was marked by significant political developments and reforms aimed at shaping the country's future.

Ayatollah Abdul Aziz al-Hakim was an influential Iraqi theologian and politician who led the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq. He served as the President of the Governing Council of Iraq and was a member of the United States-appointed Iraqi Governing Council. Following the assassination of his brother, he took over leadership of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq. With approximately 5% support in the Iraqi Council of Representatives, al-Hakim played a significant role in the political landscape of Iraq.

Masrour Barzani is a prominent Kurdish politician serving as the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region since June 2019. He also holds the position of Chancellor of the Kurdistan Region Security Council and is a member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party. Barzani assumed office as the Prime Minister of the KRG's ninth cabinet in June 2019 after receiving a significant majority of votes from the Kurdistan parliament. His professional career is characterized by a strong commitment to serving the Kurdish community and promoting regional stability and security.

Firsat Sofi Ali was an Iraqi Kurdish politician affiliated with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). He served as the Governor of Erbil until his passing due to COVID-19. Sofi held a PhD in International Law and taught law at Erbil's Polytechnic University. He also worked as a legal advisor at the Kurdistan Region Presidency’s office. Known for his professionalism, integrity, and devotion, Sofi was recognized as an active parliamentarian and competent legal expert who played a significant role in the Kurdistan Parliament.

Bakr Sidqi al-Askari was an Iraqi general known for his military leadership and strategic prowess. Rising through the ranks, he played a significant role in various military campaigns and conflicts, gaining a reputation for his effectiveness on the battlefield. He was instrumental in several key victories and was respected for his tactical acumen. Bakr Sidqi's career was marked by a commitment to serving his country and a dedication to his military duties until his untimely assassination in Mosul.

Shalmaneser I was a prominent king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian Empire. Known for his military conquests, he expanded the Assyrian territories by defeating various enemies and incorporating their lands into the empire. He was a strategic ruler who employed tactics such as deporting defeated enemies rather than executing them. Shalmaneser I also focused on architectural projects, building palaces in key cities like Assur and Nineveh, and establishing the city of Kalhu. His reign marked a period of territorial growth and cultural development for Assyria.

Hoshyar Zebari is an Iraqi-Kurdish politician with a prominent career in government. He served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2003 to 2014, during which he played a crucial role in shaping Iraq's foreign policy. Zebari later assumed the position of Deputy Prime Minister in 2014 and served as Minister of Finance until 2016. With a wealth of experience in diplomacy and governance, Zebari has been instrumental in navigating Iraq's political landscape and representing the country on the international stage.

Abd al-Rahman al-Bazzaz was an Iraqi politician, reformist, and writer known for his pan-Arab nationalist views. He served as the Dean of Baghdad Law College and later as Prime Minister of Iraq. Throughout his career, al-Bazzaz focused on professionalizing the government by advocating for increased access to civilian expertise. This approach prioritized civil administration over the military, leading to tensions with the Ba'athist-dominated government. He was eventually imprisoned and tortured for his alleged involvement in anti-government activities, before being released due to illness in 1970.

Taha Yasin Ramadan al-Jizrawi was an Iraqi politician and militia commander. He served as one of the three vice presidents of Iraq from March 1991 to the fall of Saddam Hussein in April 2003. Ramadan was a prominent figure in the Iraqi government, known for his loyalty to Saddam Hussein and his involvement in various political and military activities. He played a key role in managing internal affairs, maintaining control over certain regions, and supporting the regime during its final years in power.

Sabawi Ibrahim al-Tikriti was a prominent figure in Iraq, serving as the leader of the Iraqi secret service, the Mukhabarat, during the 1991 Gulf War. He held the position of head of the Directorate of General Security from 1991 to 1996 and later became a presidential advisor to Saddam Hussein. Following the 2003 invasion of Iraq, Sabawi went into hiding and was eventually captured in 2005. He was known for his involvement in post-regime explosions and killings, leading to his sentencing to death by hanging in 2009.

Isa ibn Musa was a prominent figure during the early Abbasid period, serving as governor of Kufa for fifteen years and later as a designated heir to the Caliphate. He played a crucial role in the smooth succession of caliphs and was involved in various military campaigns, including suppressing revolts by Muhammad al-Nafs al-Zakiyya and Ibrahim ibn Abdallah. Despite his initial position in the succession, Isa eventually ceded his place to al-Mansur's descendants, ultimately renouncing his claim in favor of al-Mahdi's son.

Ghaida Kambash was an Iraqi politician known for her contributions to the field of political sciences. She held a Ph.D. from the University of Baghdad and served as a member of the Council of Representatives of Iraq from 2010 until her passing in 2020. During her tenure, she focused on advocating for reforms in the education system. Kambash's dedication to public service and her efforts to improve the educational landscape in Iraq left a lasting impact on her community and colleagues.

Latif Yahia is an Iraqi blogger, political writer, and former lieutenant who served in the Iran–Iraq War. He gained notoriety for his alleged role as the body double of Uday Hussein, the elder son of Saddam Hussein. Yahia's professional life has been marked by his experiences as a body double, which he has written about extensively. He is known for his insights into the inner workings of the Hussein regime, shedding light on the complexities of power and identity in Iraq.

Ja'far Pasha al-Askari was an influential Iraqi politician and military figure who played a significant role in the early 20th-century Arab nationalist movements. He served in the Ottoman Army during World War I before aligning with Arab nationalism and supporting Faisal I. Al-Askari held various key government positions, including Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and served as Prime Minister of Iraq twice. He was assassinated during the 1936 Iraqi coup d'état while serving as Minister of Defense.

Tawfiq al-Yasiri was an influential Iraqi politician and military officer. He gained prominence during the 1991 Gulf War, serving as a brigadier general. Following the invasion of Iraq in 2003, he founded the Iraqi National Democratic Coalition, a significant political organization. Throughout his career, al-Yasiri remained active in political affairs, advocating for democratic principles and contributing to the country's political landscape. Tragically, in 2020, he became the first Iraqi politician to succumb to COVID-19, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to his nation.

Rafi Hiyad al-Issawi is an Iraqi politician with a background in medicine. He has served as the country's finance minister and deputy prime minister. As a prominent figure within the Sunni Arab minority, he holds a significant position in Iraqi politics. Al-Issawi is recognized as the fourth most senior politician from the Sunni Arab community, following influential figures such as former Vice President Tariq al-Hashemi, Deputy Prime Minister Saleh al-Mutlak, and Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament, Usama al-Nujayfi.

Lieutenant General Abid Al-Hamid Mahmud al-Tikriti was an Iraqi military officer who served as Saddam Hussein's personal secretary. Rising from a non-commissioned officer to Lieutenant General, he was considered Hussein's right-hand man and a trusted figure overseeing the Iraqi Special Security Organization. Captured in 2003 by a joint raid, he stood trial in 2008 for crimes against humanity and genocide, eventually being sentenced to death in 2010. Mahmud was executed by hanging in 2012 after being found guilty of organizing a crackdown against banned political parties in Iraq.

Al-Basasiri, a Turkish slave-soldier, rose to prominence as a military commander in Iraq. He switched allegiance from the Buwayhid dynasty to the Fatimid Caliphate and successfully led the conquest of Baghdad. Subsequently, he assumed control over the city, ruling for nearly a year. His strategic acumen and military prowess enabled him to navigate complex political landscapes and achieve significant victories in his career, solidifying his reputation as a formidable leader in the region.

Jamil Al Midfai was an influential Iraqi politician who held the position of prime minister five times throughout his career. Known for his leadership and political acumen, he played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Iraq during his tenure. Al Midfai was dedicated to serving his country and addressing key issues facing the nation. His contributions to governance and public policy had a lasting impact on Iraq's political development and the welfare of its people.

Mohammad Bahr al-Uloom was an Iraqi political figure and Twelver Shi'a Islamic leader who held significant roles in the Iraqi government. He served as the President of the Governing Council of Iraq and was also known as the 43rd Prime Minister of Iraq. Throughout his professional life, Bahr al-Uloom played a crucial role in shaping political decisions and policies in Iraq, particularly within the context of his leadership in the Iraqi government and his influence within the Twelver Shi'a Islamic community.

Muhammad Fadhel al-Jamali was an influential Iraqi politician and statesman who served as the Prime Minister of Iraq from 1953 to 1954. He also held the position of Iraqi Foreign Affairs Minister and represented Iraq at various United Nations meetings, including signing the UN Charter on behalf of his country. Al-Jamali was highly respected for his contributions to politics and education in Iraq and the Arab World. He was known for his academic excellence and obtained prestigious scientific degrees from top universities worldwide.