The future of Iraq-Syria relations

  • Wed, November 18, 2026 • 11:00 am ET
  • Virtual event

As the two countries renew their diplomatic engagement, the Atlantic Council’s Iraq Initiative and Syria Project host a discussion on the future of Iraq-Syria relations.

On Wednesday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m. ET, the Atlantic Council’s Iraq Initiative and Syria Project will host a virtual discussion on the future of Iraq-Syria relations as Baghdad and Damascus renew diplomatic engagement following decades of strained ties.

Experts will examine the political, economic, and security dimensions of bilateral relations, opportunities for greater cooperation, and what closer ties between Iraq and Syria could mean for regional stability.

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Speakers


Ibrahim Al-Assil
Senior Research Fellow, Belfer Center,
Harvard Kennedy School;
Nonresident Senior Fellow, Syria Project,
Atlantic Council


Yesar Al-Maleki
Nonresident Senior Fellow, Iraq Initiative,
Atlantic Council


Lahib Higel
Deputy Director, MENA,
International Crisis Group


Karam Shaar
Director,
Karam Shaar Advisory

Moderated by


Victoria Taylor
Director of the Iraq Initiative & Syria Project,
Atlantic Council

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The Syria Project advances policy engagement and international partnerships during a pivotal political transition. It serves as a leading platform for independent analysis and high-level dialogue on US-Syria relations, economic recovery, governance, and regional reintegration, leveraging deep networks across Washington, Damascus, and the broader Middle East.

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The Iraq Initiative is driving policy-oriented programs and analysis that advance Iraq’s stability and sovereignty, regional integration, and democratic and economic development. It also aims to promote a strengthened US-Iraq partnership.

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