Iraq's embattled prime minister, Nouri al-Maliki, ordered the security forces on Tuesday not intervene in the country’s political crisis amid fears that he might go to any lengths to stay in power. In a statement, Maliki urged army, police and security forces to focus on defending the country. He appeared more isolated than ever as Iraqi politicians and the international community rallied behind Haider al-Abadi, the Shiite premier-designate seen as the unifying figure needed if the nation is to confront a spreading Sunni insurgency. Iraqi President Fouad Massoum has named Abadi – who is from al-Maliki's own Dawa Party - to form a new government, a move the incumbent has angrily rejected. Secretary of State The power struggle in Baghdad comes as Iraq is battling militants from the al-Qaida breakaway group in the north and the west. John Kerry on Tuesday said the U.S. is prepared to offer Iraq significant additional aid in the fight against Islamic State (ISIS) militants. IN-DEPTHMore U.S. Support for Iraq? There's Just One CatchObama Hails 'Promising Step Forward' for Iraq GovernmentEscape From 'Mile-High Hell': Who Gets Left Behind? - The Associated Press -