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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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MENASource

Mar 21, 2019

Sixteen years after regime change, Iraq needs to double down on its gains

By Dr. Abbas Kadhim

The 2003 US invasion of Iraq ushered in a new era in the country’s modern history, with many accomplishments and setbacks.

Iraq

New Atlanticist

Mar 20, 2019

The ‘Caliphate:’ Gone by tonight or with us for decades?

By Frederic C. Hof

An important battle in Syria has been won.  But the war will continue. 

Iraq Syria

IranSource

Mar 15, 2019

A photo op in Najaf reveals an Iran that could be

By Borzou Daragahi

As far as photographs go, it’s a rather inartful moment. Three aging men dressed in dark clothes sit in a spartan room with small glasses of heavily-brewed tea and a tissue box resting before them, as they engage in conversation. But to Iranians and Iran-watchers the March 13 meeting marked a historical moment. The image […]

Iran Iraq

New Atlanticist

Mar 4, 2019

Some child soldiers get rehabilitation, others get prison

By Jo Becker

With the rise of violent extremist groups, many countries have adopted much more aggressive counterterrorism measures, including a marked increase in the detention and prosecution of children.

Iraq Terrorism

In the News

Feb 5, 2019

Kadhim Joins PBS to Discuss Trump’s Remarks on US Troops in Iraq to “Watch Iran”

By Abbas Kadhim

Watch the full discussion here

Iraq

MENASource

Jan 30, 2019

Nearly one hundred days in, how is Iraq’s new government performing?

By Dr. Abbas Kadhim

Spending the last two weeks of 2018 in Iraq offered a window into Iraqi politics, the economy, and how Iraqis are coping on a variety of issues.

Iraq

IranSource

Dec 19, 2018

Despite US Pressure and Decreased Popularity Among Iraqis, Iran Is Staying in Iraq

By Maysam Behravesh

The new round of US sanctions against Iran has put neighboring Iraq in a tough position.  Baghdad heavily relies on Iranian electricity and natural gas imports to meet its energy needs. A forty-five-day sanctions waiver granted to Iraq by the Trump administration in early November is set to expire this week.

Iran Iraq

MENASource

Dec 10, 2018

One year post-ISIS: Iraq is on the right path, but must take further steps

By Abbas Kadhim

On December 10, 2017, former Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory in the battle to liberate Iraqi territories from the self-proclaimed Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). The Iraqi Army, Special Forces, and Federal Police, supported by the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMFs) and the Peshmerga, fought for every inch of territory that was occupied by the terrorist group. Iraq was not alone in this fight. An international coalition, led by the United States, offered significant military help in the form of air support, logistics, and invaluable advisory assistance on the ground.

Iraq

In the News

Dec 4, 2018

Kadhim Quoted in CNBC on Iraq’s Membership in OPEC

By Abbas Kadhim

Read the full article here

Iraq

IranSource

Oct 11, 2018

Iran Can’t Fulfill Its Hopes of a Shia Corridor Without Iraq

By Avi Melamed

Since the Iranian regime seized power in 1979, its goal has been for Iran to become a regional power and to restore the Shias as the rulers of the Muslim world. A cornerstone of its strategy is to build and control a land corridor stretching from Iran to the Mediterranean Sea. To extend its power […]

Iran Iraq

Experts