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

Oct 28, 2025

Romanowski quoted in Safaq on the meeting between the Iraqi Prime Minister and US Envoy

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor joins Rudaw to discuss delays in KRG formation

By Atlantic Council

Democratic Transitions Elections

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor joins Kurdistan24 to discuss the U.S. partnership with Kurdish leaders

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

American University energy event mentioned in Shams TV on the Iraq electricity crisis

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Economy & Business

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

LaHood quoted from Iraq Initiative event in Rudaw on the U.S.-Iraq security relationship

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Oct 23, 2025

Why Washington’s anti-PMF moves are testing the Iraq partnership

By Mohammed A. Salih

The US campaign against the PMF groups will likely have significant implications for Iraq’s political process moving forward.

Iraq Middle East

MENASource

Oct 6, 2025

Can Iraq and Kuwait transform the Khor Abdullah waterway dispute into a regional diplomacy model?

By Rami Alkhafaji and Safwan Al-Amin

The dispute underscores the complexities of post-conflict border demarcation— and how legal disputes may multiply into geopolitical ones.

Iraq Maritime Security

MENASource

Sep 30, 2025

Is the Baghdad-Erbil oil deal a blueprint for settlement—or a stopgap? 

By Victoria J. Taylor , Yerevan Saeed

Whether the oil deal will be a tactical stopgap or a step towards permanent settlement will become known after the Iraq's elections and the year's end.

Energy Markets & Governance Geopolitics & Energy Security

MENASource

Sep 10, 2025

Ten questions (and expert answers) on Operation Inherent Resolve’s end in Iraq

By Atlantic Council experts

This new frontier in the US-Iraq relationship leaves many opportunities, challenges and unknowns. Our experts unpack it all.

Defense Policy Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Sep 8, 2025

Can Iraq’s partial crackdown on a powerful militia weaken Iran’s proxies?

By Akeel Abbas

The prime minister's willingness to face down Kataib Hezbollah is a rare and daring move.

Iran Iraq

Experts

Events