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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.

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Press and members call

Dec 2, 2019

Atlantic Council press call: Iraqi Prime Minister resigns amid violent protests

By Atlantic Council

On Friday, November 29, Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi announced plans to resign after nearly two months of anti-government protests. The nationwide demonstrations, which have been driven by anger over rampant corruption and high unemployment rates, have turned increasingly violent and have resulted in close to 400 fatalities. Following Mahdi's resignation, Abbas Kadhim, C. Anthony Pfaff, Thomas Warrick, and William Wechsler unpack the crisis in Iraq.

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy
Iraqi prime minister's resignation, Adil Abdul-Mahdi

MENASource

Dec 2, 2019

The Iraqi prime minister’s resignation: A way ahead for the United States

By C. Anthony Pfaff

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Adil Abdul-Mahdi, should be feeling a great sense of relief. Since mid-October, media outlets have reported his intent to resign amid violent protests that have engulfed much of Iraq. His resignation should be no surprise. Since the fall of Saddam, Iraq has a history of picking leaders who do not pose a […]

Corruption Democratic Transitions

IranSource

Dec 2, 2019

Protests challenge Iran’s future position in Iraq

By Robert Czulda

Ongoing violent protests in Iraq have shaken the fragile stability of the country, as well as Iran’s carefully constructed geopolitical strategy for its neighbor and historic rival.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment

In the News

Dec 1, 2019

Kadhim quoted in The Washington Times on the resignation of Iraqi prime minister

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Corruption

In the News

Dec 1, 2019

Kadhim quoted in the Wall Street Journal on Iraqi protests and Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi’s resignation

By Atlantic Council

Corruption Crisis Management

MENASource

Nov 30, 2019

The challenges Iraq faces after prime minister’s resignation

By Abbas Kadhim

The news on November 29 that Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi will resign is unprecedented in post-2003 Iraq. Many questions must be answered before his successor is appointed, and in the meantime, we can expect unrest to continue.

Democratic Transitions Iraq

In the News

Nov 28, 2019

Kadhim quoted in L’Orient Le Jour on corruption in Iraq

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Corruption

In the News

Nov 26, 2019

Cohen in Forbes: Making History: U.S. Exports More Petroleum Than It Imports In September and October

By Atlantic Council

Energy & Environment Energy Markets & Governance

In the News

Nov 25, 2019

Kadhim quoted on Politico praising US non-intervention in Iraq protests

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Iraq

In the News

Nov 23, 2019

Kadhim quoted in Politico on U.S. relations with Iraq and Iran

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Defense Policy

Experts