In recent hours, multiple Iraqi citizens have focused on a photo shared by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Iraq, Mark Safaya, on his X social media account.
Photo Description
The image shows President Trump seated at a table with his favorite red caps bearing his famous slogan “America is back” printed on them, along with a cup of soft drink in front of him. An old Iraqi currency note is also visible on the same table. Mark Safaya appears leaning toward the U.S. President, engaged in conversation with him.
Caption and Context
Accompanying the photo, he commented, “It was a great day, a great day with the best.” He further added, “It was a pleasure meeting you, Mr. President,” referring to Donald Trump. However, details of this meeting have not emerged, nor is it clear why the old Iraqi currency was placed in front of Trump.
Iraqi Reactions
Nevertheless, several Iraqi citizens confirmed that the currency is indeed old and features an image of former executed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein printed on it. Questions have arisen among social media users about this matter, with some expressing doubts and suspicions, and others hinting that the image may have been edited.
It should be noted that President Trump had suddenly announced on his social media platform Truth Social in October 2025 that Iraqi-origin Mark Safaya was being appointed as special envoy to Iraq. This appointment had also raised several questions at the time, as Safaya has a non-traditional background—he runs a chain of marijuana stores in the U.S. state of Michigan. Moreover, he lacks any official or diplomatic experience. Despite this, President Trump had praised him, stating that he possesses a deep understanding of U.S.-Iraq relations.
