Iraq

By hosting two regional summits, Prime Minister Sudani's government sought to strategically position Iraq's reentry into central Arab regional politics. However, internal divisions, regional mistrust, and shifting geopolitics exposed the limits of Baghdad’s ambitions.

A new deal between the Iraqi government and BP to develop oil fields in Iraq's most contested province could rekindle a century-old flame between Baghdad and Erbil.

On December 5, AGSIW hosted a discussion on U.S.-Iraqi relations.

While Iraqi leaders consistently emphasize the importance of Western investment in their energy sector, their actions instead are increasing Iraq’s dependence on Chinese markets and oil firms.

Iraq’s Kurdish population may benefit more from a consistent U.S. foreign policy under Harris than the unpredictability of another Trump term.

Chinese investors are less risk averse than their Western counterparts, hence their strong showing in the latest upstream opportunities offered by Baghdad.

The Development Road project, a joint venture among Iraq, Turkey, the UAE, and Qatar, could reshape economic and geopolitical contours in the Middle East, but substantial challenges will remain ahead.

Iraq is stepping up efforts to reduce flared gas as the first solar power plant moves forward with France’s TotalEnergies.