Iraq

The United States and Iraq are strategically tied through mutual interests related to the stability and security of the region. Iraq plays an important role in securing energy resources, combating extremist groups such as ISIS, and managing regional tensions. In the aftermath of the US invasion in 2003, Iraq continues to face significant challenges in attracting investment, improving governance and service delivery, balancing relations with its neighbors, and raising the quality of life of everyday Iraqis. A strong US-Iraqi relationship depends on continued cooperation on security, economic and regional affairs.

Programs

The Iraq Initiative provides transatlantic and regional policy makers with unique perspectives and analysis on the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing Iraq as the country tries to build an inclusive political system, attract economic investment, and encourage a vibrant civil society.

Top experts

Content

In the News

Dec 8, 2022

Kadhim joins Iraqi News Channel to discuss Iraq

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Iraq

In the News

Dec 8, 2022

Tabaqchali in LSE’s Middle East Centre Blog: Iraq’s Wealth and the Forty Thieves- Structural Enablers of Corruption with Impunity

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Middle East

In the News

Dec 8, 2022

“Turmoil and Transition: Iraq twenty years after the invasion” mentioned on the US State Department NEA Twitter account

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Middle East

In the News

Dec 8, 2022

“Turmoil and Transition: Iraq twenty years after the invasion” mentioned in Al-Arabiya

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Middle East

In the News

Dec 8, 2022

Kadhim joins Alhurra to discuss how America can contribute to education in Iraq

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Iraq

TURKEYSource

Dec 1, 2022

The risks and rewards of Erdogan’s next military operation

By Rich Outzen

The November 13 bombing in Istanbul, blamed on the PKK, is spurring a planned Turkish offensive against PKK affiliates in Northern Syria, fulfilling a long term goal to better secure the country's southern border.

Conflict Iraq

Report

Nov 16, 2022

KRI positioned in prominent role in global gas markets

By Ahmed Tabaqchali

A new report, The Kurdistan Region of Iraq’s Gas-Export Potential: Deja Vu All Over Again, authored by Atlantic Council senior fellow Ahmed Tabaqchali, considers the Kurdistan Region of Iraq’s (KRI) proven and probable gas reserves having the potential to nearly triple production by 2030 and more than sextuple by 2040.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment

MENASource

Nov 7, 2022

Iraq lacks strategy on many governance fronts. It’s never too late to rectify this unforgivable deficiency.

By Abbas Kadhim

Post-2003 Iraq has shown a gross lack of strategy on many governance fronts. It’s never too late to rectify this unforgivable deficiency.

Iraq Middle East

MENASource

Nov 4, 2022

Iraq has a new government. The United States would benefit from broad engagement with all Iraqi stakeholders.

By C. Anthony Pfaff

Such an approach will typically yield modest results, but these results can accumulate and place the United States in a better position.

Iraq Middle East

Event Recap

Nov 3, 2022

Turmoil and transition: Iraq twenty years after the invasion

By Madeline Hart and Nour Alhajjeh

An Atlantic Council conference on Iraq's security, environment, economy, and democratic institutions brought together high-level officials from across the region and the United States to explore innovative solutions.

Corruption Democratic Transitions

Experts

Events