Iraq

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Iraq is one of the most strategically important countries in the MENA region. With a population of roughly 47 million, it sits at the crossroads of the Gulf, the Levant, Türkiye, and Iran, sharing borders with six countries. Iraq is also OPEC’s second-largest crude oil producer after Saudi Arabia and holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, giving developments inside the country broader economic significance.

At the same time, Iraq’s political system, relations with Iran and the United States, federal relationship with the Kurdistan Region, security environment, water challenges, and efforts to rebuild and diversify its economy make it a critical arena for understanding wider regional change. Iraq’s location and political complexity mean that developments in the country can have consequences for security, diplomacy, trade, and political relations across the Middle East.