The president of the Republic of Iraq is the head of state of Iraq. Since the mid-2000s, the presidency is primarily a symbolic office, as the position does not possess significant power within the country according to the constitution adopted in October 2005.
Due to the Muhasasah political system informally adopted since the creation of the new Iraqi federal state, the office is held by a Kurd by convention, although this is not an official requirement. All presidents since 2005 have been members of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) party.
In the 2026 Iraqi presidential election held on 11 April 2026, the Iraqi parliament voted Nizar Amedi as the new president of Iraq.
According to Article 61 of the Iraqi Constitution, the President is elected through a process of indirect suffrage; that is, an election held by the Council of Representatives, instead of popular mandate.
According to Article 73 of the Iraqi Constitution, the powers of the president are:
Issuing a special pardon on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, with the exception of what is related to the private right, and those convicted of international crimes, terrorism, and financial and administrative corruption.
Ratification of international treaties and agreements, after the approval of the House of Representatives, and they are considered ratified after fifteen days from the date of their receipt by the President.
Ratifiying and issuing laws enacted by the Council of Representatives, considered ratified after fifteen days from the date of their receipt by the President.
Calling the elected Council of Representatives to convene within a period not exceeding fifteen days from the date of ratification of the election results, and in other cases stipulated in the constitution.
To award medals and decorations based on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, in accordance with the law.
To ratify death sentences issued by the competent courts.
Performing the mission of the High Command of the Armed Forces for honorary and ceremonial purposes.
Exercising any other presidential powers stipulated in [the] constitution.
The Iraqi constitution, in Article 68, specifies a number of conditions that a candidate for the presidential office must:
Be an Iraqi by birth and of Iraqi parents. ( here, Iraqi means the inhabitants of all regions in Iraq.)
Be fully qualified and have attained 40 years of age.
Have a good reputation, political experience, and is known for his integrity, uprightness, justice, and devotion to the homeland.
Have not been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude.