Baghdad: The Iraqi parliament has approved the new government headed by Ali Al Zaidi despite the submission of an incomplete cabinet lineup.

According to Emirates News Agency, parliament approved 14 ministers whose names were put to a vote, while nine ministerial portfolios remain vacant, most notably the ministries of Interior and Defence.

Al Zaidi's government is expected to comprise 23 ministers, but the cabinet remains incomplete as negotiations continue among major political parties over several portfolios. The process of finalizing the government's composition is ongoing, with discussions aimed at achieving consensus among political factions.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein retained the post he held in the previous government led by Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani, signaling continuity in Iraq's foreign policy. Additionally, Bassem Al Abbadi was appointed as the new Minister of Oil, a key position in a country where oil revenues are pivotal to the economy.

The approval of Al Zaidi's government marks a significant step in Iraq's political landscape, although the incomplete cabinet indicates ongoing challenges in reaching political agreements among Iraq's diverse political entities.