Nearly two decades after the U.S. invasion of Iraq, the country finds itself once again at a critical juncture. Recent efforts to form a stable government have been hindered by ongoing threats from armed groups, leaving the political landscape fragile and uncertain. At the same time, many Iraqis are increasingly frustrated with the state’s inability to meet their needs and fulfill its promises, leading to widespread discontent and questioning the viability of the current governance structures.

Recognizing the importance of this moment, the Hollings Center hosted a virtual dialogue in April 2022 to explore potential pathways forward in the U.S.-Iraq relationship. Iraq’s strategic significance in the Middle East is undeniable, as its stability is crucial for maintaining security across the region. However, the discussions highlighted that beyond security concerns, there are several areas where the U.S. and Iraq could deepen their partnership. These include economic development, environmental initiatives, trade and finance, energy cooperation, and educational exchanges—all of which hold significant promise for fostering a more robust and mutually beneficial relationship.

As we continue to monitor the evolving situation in Iraq, we revisited these discussions to assess the current trajectory of the country with two of our dialogue participants. Their insights shed light on the recent developments and potential future directions for Iraq, offering valuable perspectives on how the U.S. and Iraq can navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

For further details, we invite you to review our snapshot, U.S.-Iraq Relations: Interests, Expectations, Ways Forward.