Iraq Challenges Saudi Arabia, Resists Oil Production Cut
The kingdom tries to put the squeeze on an Iraq that is emboldened by rising oil output.
Iraq
Fear of Civil War as Iraqi-Kurdish Talks Collapse
The central and Kurdish governments fail to diffuse a military standoff in the north of Iraq.
Iraqi-Russian Arms Deal Suggests Reduced American Role
The United States appear comfortable letting Russia expand its influence in the region.
Despite Syria Retaliation, Turkish Intervention Unlikely
The geopolitics surrounding the conflict in Syria have yet to turn in Turkey’s favor.
September Bloodiest Month in Iraq in Two Years
In the absence of foreign security forces, Al Qaeda is staging a comeback in Iraq.
Hashimi’s Death Sentence Exacerbates Iraq-Turkey Tension
The Turks refuse to extradite the former vice president who has been sentenced in absentia.
Iraq Declares Kurdish Oil Exports to Turkey “Illegal”
Baghdad inists that oil exports should go through the central government.
Iraq Warns Turkey Over Kurdistan Pipeline Deal
Baghdad opposes Kurdish plans to trade oil and gas. Turkey welcomes them.
Diplomatic Crisis Between Iraq, Turkey Deepening
Turkish relations with Iraq’s Kurds and Sunnis anger the Shī’ah government in Baghdad.
Iraq’s Maliki Brands Turkey “Hostile State”
Iraq’s premier says his Turkish counterpart seeks “hegemony” in the Middle East.
Iraqis Regard Arab League Summit Warily
Baghdad’s residents are less enthusiastic about the conference than their government.
Saudi Arabia Boosts Relationship With Iraq
Saudi Arabia finally sends an ambassador to a country it has long viewed with suspicion.
Exxon Moves on Kurdistan Deal Despite Baghdad Threat
Wikistrat analyzes the impact of the American oil company’s Iraq operation.
Escalating Sectarian Divide Threatens Post-American Iraq
As Iraq’s Shia consolidate power under Nouri al-Maliki, Sunnis may again revolt.
Iraq’s Nouri al-Maliki Increasingly Authoritarian
Iraq’s prime minister may be using sectarianism to sideline his opponents.