The Bottom Line Upfront
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani of Iraq seeks to pivot the traditionally security-focused relationship with the United States towards a more comprehensive partnership that includes economic development and regional integration.
The Breakdown
- Coming amid a time of strain, when militants linked to Iran based in Iraq vow to strike out at the U.S. troops station in the Middle East, should the war between Israel and Lebanon widen its borders, the economic partnership holds implications for future stabilizing diplomacy.
- This transition aligns with Iraq’s broader goals to diversify its economy, leveraging technology and expertise from the U.S., while also pursuing stronger ties with neighboring countries through initiatives like the Development Road project. Concurrently, President Biden is considering a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia that could impact regional dynamics.
- A redefined U.S.-Iraqi partnership would stabilize Iraqi growth and contribute positively to Middle East geopolitics.
