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.

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Content

New Atlanticist

Sep 29, 2017

The Taste of Freedom, But at What Cost for the Kurds?

By Bina Hussein

While the Kurdistani people may have voted for independence, the practical application of the referendum, which was rejected by the Kurdistan region’s neighbors, remains uncertain. Depending on the fallout in the days, weeks, and months to come, the referendum could either prove an opportunity to improve regional relations, or leave a bitter aftertaste for all […]

Iran Iraq

MENASource

Sep 27, 2017

After the referendum: Negotiation is still possible

By Harith Hasan

Monday’s referendum in Kurdistan resulted in a situation whereby all parties lack good options. To be sure, Masoud Barzani, the leader of Kurdistan Region Government (KRG), achieved some immediate political gains. He managed to mobilize his base by calling for and conducting the referendum despite international objections. In doing so, he strengthened his political stance […]

Iraq

In the News

Sep 27, 2017

Mardini Quoted in LA Times on Kurdish Independence Movement in Iraq

By Ramzy Mardini

Read the full article here.

Iraq

In the News

Sep 27, 2017

Alyahya Quoted in Foreign Policy on Iraqi Kurd Independence Referendum

By Mohammed Alyahya

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Iraq

MENASource

Sep 25, 2017

Midwife to Kurdistan

By Michael D. Barbero

Once the United States fully committed to defeat the Islamic State (ISIS, ISIL, Daesh), the ultimate demise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria was never in question. The issue was what to do the ‘day after’ ISIS: specifically, how to transition to a post-ISIS Middle East and to confront the enduring sectarian issues and ethnic […]

Iraq

In the News

Sep 15, 2017

Mardini Quoted in Financial Times on Iraqi Kurds Voting for Referendum

By Ramzy Mardini

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Iraq

In the News

Aug 26, 2017

Mardini Quoted in Politico on Iraqi Politics

By Ramzy Mardini

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Iraq

In the News

Aug 9, 2017

Alfoneh in Middle East Institute: Tehran’s Iraqi Proxies and Looming Conflict with the US

By Ali Alfoneh

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Iran Iraq

In the News

Aug 3, 2017

Alfoneh in Middle East Institute: Iran-Backed Popular Mobilization Forces Preparing for Post-Islamic State Iraq

By Ali Alfoneh

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Iran Iraq

In the News

Aug 2, 2017

Al Yahya Quoted in The National on Relations Between Iraq and Saudi Arabia

By Mohammed al -Yahya

Read the full article here.

Iraq Saudi Arabia

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