Across the United Kingdom and much of Europe, politics has become increasingly dominated by immigration, climate targets, identity politics, nationalism, culture wars, and ideological battles. Political parties on both the left and the right present themselves as the answer to…
The recent decision by the Central Bank of Iraq to issue an additional 25 trillion dinars in order to finance government expenditures has reignited debate about the country’s economic future. Much of the discussion has focused on inflation, liquidity shortages,…
For decades, instability in the Middle East has been presented primarily as the result of ancient rivalries, sectarian divisions, ideological conflict, or security threats. While these factors all play a role, they do not fully explain why instability repeatedly persists…
For years, discussions surrounding Iraq’s problems have focused on corruption, militias, oil dependency, political instability, and failing public services. While all of these issues are central to understanding Iraq’s condition, another long-term issue continues to expand in the background, which…
The gap between what the United States administration is demanding from Iran and what the Iranian regime seeks from this conflict continues to widen. At present, the situation remains locked in a stalemate, with both sides firmly holding to their…
Iraq is widely described as an oil-dependent economy. That is only part of the truth. There are numerous other revenue sources flowing through the Iraqi state, many of which remain unaudited or poorly tracked. These streams form a significant source…
Iraq is often described as a resource-rich country with vast economic potential. But in practice, particularly after the 2003 invasion of Iraq, it has evolved in a very different direction. It shifted from a country with elements of research, development,…
I remember a question I was asked many years ago, one that never left me and, over time, pushed me to think more deeply about Iraq’s identity and how it connects to the reality we see today. “Where are you…
Iraq’s political and economic system cannot be understood without examining one of its most defining features: the presence of armed groups operating both within and beyond the state. Armed militias shaping institutions and parliament as they see fit, backed by…