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

IranSource

Nov 5, 2019

Iran’s revolutionary bluster masks its role as oppressor in the Middle East

By Borzou Daragahi

At their core, the problems in Iraq and Lebanon are the same as those in Iran, as they are in Egypt, Syria, Algeria and elsewhere in the Middle East: castes of entrenched, corrupt and incompetent rulers lord over young populations yearning for better lives.

Corruption Iran

New Atlanticist

Nov 1, 2019

Iraq’s government cannot reform itself

By Samir Sumaidaie

The Iraqi government, as it is constituted now and despite all past and present promises and claims to the contrary, does not have the political will or the capacity to deliver good governance. That is why the first demand of the protesters is for the government to step aside and be replaced—hopefully peacefully by constitutional steps—by an emergency administration.

Democratic Transitions Iraq

MENASource

Oct 31, 2019

Iraqi protestors unite behind demands, not sectarian identities

By Rana Abdulhadi

Protests in Iraq are not new. At several times during the past few years, the Iraqi people have taken to the streets against corruption, unemployment, and poor public services.

Corruption Iraq

MENASource

Oct 31, 2019

Will protests herald a new era in Iraqi politics?

By Dara Salam

The defining feature of the protests in Baghdad which started on October 1 and spread to other cities in southern Iraq is that they were neither led nor called for by a religious authority (also known as the marja’iya) or another leader. When the first wave of protests began in multiple cities, the protesters’ message […]

Corruption Iraq

MENASource

Oct 31, 2019

With Abdul-Mahdi offering to resign, what’s next for Iraq?

By Middle East programs

Atlantic Council experts react to the announcement of the Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi resigning. Abbas Kadhim is the Director of the Iraq Initiative at the Atlantic Council. “In his address to the Iraqi people on October 31, President Barham Salih referred to Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi’s offer to resign if the two major parliamentary blocs […]

Corruption Iraq

In the News

Oct 30, 2019

Pfaff quoted in VOA on Iraq’s economic woes

By Atlantic Council

Corruption Economy & Business

MENASource

Oct 30, 2019

Iran’s not the only country all over Iraq

By Daniel J. Samet

Iraq joins China's Belt and Road Initiative, though few notice.

China Iraq

In the News

Oct 30, 2019

Samet in The Diplomat: China, Not Iran, Is the Power to Watch in Iraq

By Atlantic Council

China Economy & Business

In the News

Oct 29, 2019

Charai in The National Interest: Baghdadi’s Death Creates an Opportunity for Peace in the Middle East

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Middle East

In the News

Oct 29, 2019

Kadhim joins BBC to discuss reports of Iraqi deaths in anti-government protests

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Corruption

Experts

Events