Sunni parties in Iraq have emerged as a crucial political force, openly rejecting the prospect of Nuri al-Maliki returning to the prime ministership, even before establishing a clear U.S. stance on Iraq's political future. This public refusal signifies a notable shift in Sunni political positioning, as these parties have started to act as a substantial bloc aiming to reshape power balances within the government.

According to Al Jazeera's correspondent in Baghdad, the Sunni groups, now known as the National Political Council, have been early advocates warning against the re-employment of political figures associated with previous crises in the country. They argue that bringing back such personalities could jeopardize Iraq’s stability, potentially returning it to cycles of tension and unrest. This statement reflects their deep reservations about political phases led by those same figures who have failed in the past.

This early rejection by the Sunni blocs is underlined by fears of a Maliki-led government, a sentiment still strongly resonating within Sunni coalitions. The decision to accept or reject Maliki's return is contingent upon internal and external reassurances as well as clear agreements to prevent past political failures from repeating. This illustrates a calculated division among the Sunni factions between those advocating for a strict stance and those more amenable to negotiation.