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

MENASource

Mar 19, 2025

Why the United States must bridge the Iraq-Syria divide

By Sarkawt Shamsulddin

With leverage over both capitals, the United States emerges as the linchpin in delicate diplomatic moment between Baghdad and Damascus.

English Iraq

In the News

Mar 18, 2025

Tabaqchali in London School of Economics: the empire strikes back: Trump 2.0 and Iraq’s dollar accounts at the federal reserve

By Atlantic Council

Economic Sanctions Economy & Business

In the News

Mar 18, 2025

Bakir joins Strait Talk to discuss the PKK’s agreement to a ceasefire

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Middle East

In the News

Mar 18, 2025

Zais quoted in Rudaw on Iraq’s oil pipeline

By Atlantic Council

Energy & Environment Iran

New Atlanticist

Feb 27, 2025

Is this the end of the PKK and its conflict with Turkey?

By Defne Arslan, Rich Outzen

Imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan issued a call for the militant group to lay down its arms after four decades of conflict with the Turkish state.

Conflict Crisis Management

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Alkhatib interviewed in ABC News on Trump’s proposal to take over Gaza

By Atlantic Council

Conflict Crisis Management

Issue Brief

Feb 24, 2025

From Tunis to Baghdad: Can platform-based politics take root?

By Carrie Schenkel and James Storen

This paper is the fifth in the Freedom and Prosperity Center's "State of the Parties" series analyzing the strength of multi-party systems in different regions of the world.

Civil Society Corruption

MENASource

Jan 15, 2025

As a new Syria takes shape, Iraq will need to recalibrate its role in the Middle East

By Abbas Kadhim

The Iraqi government must navigate several challenges, recalibrate its role in the region, and balance its foreign relations—including with the United States

Crisis Management Democratic Transitions
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and his Kurdish counterpart Masrour Barzani sign deal to restart northern oil exports in Baghdad, April 4, 2023.

Report

Jan 6, 2025

Kurdistan’s share of the 2024 Iraqi budget: More than meets the eye

By Ahmed Tabaqchali

How to account for the autonomous Iraqi region of Kurdistan has complicated budgeting in Baghdad in the past. The latest budget cycle may have addressed some of these problems—and may help reset Baghdad-Erbil relations.

Economy & Business Iraq

MENASource

Dec 19, 2024

2024: A year in the Middle East

By Leila Ouhri, Kate Springs, and Yaseen Rashed

2024 was a year of consequence for the Middle East and North Africa, with metastasizing conflict, human tragedies, and major elections across the region.

Conflict Crisis Management

Experts