Iraq is entering a new phase of stability and growth, according to President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid. He emphasized that the country is now 100% safe as U.S. troops prepare to withdraw after more than twenty years. Rashid acknowledged the crucial support from the U.S. in defeating ISIS but stressed Iraq’s intent to chart its own course moving forward. “Americans have helped us in defeating terrorism,” Rashid told Fox News Digital. “It’s a new phase in Iraq, really concentrating on improving the infrastructure.”
Rashid painted a picture of a transformed Iraq, one that relies less on its tumultuous past and more on future opportunities. He encouraged American businesses to partner in the rebuilding efforts, saying, “We have started development in every field of life, and there are good opportunities for a number of American companies.” His vision seeks to redefine Iraq not primarily through its history of conflict, but as a hub for commerce and trade.
The context for this shift is significant. U.S. forces were initially deployed as part of a coalition that toppled Saddam Hussein in 2003 and later confronted ISIS. As the timeline for troop withdrawal approaches, uncertainty looms. “This is a hot button political issue,” noted Behnam Taleblu, a fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, raising concerns about the implications of a complete troop exit.
While Rashid expresses confidence in Iraq’s stability, challenges remain. American military leaders warn that ISIS cells continue to operate in rural areas, and Iranian-backed militias have targeted both U.S. and Iraqi government facilities. “The deterrent effect of U.S. forces there, I think, could be significant,” Taleblu stated, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the U.S. military presence.
Rashid addressed the concern of Iranian influences within Iraq, a topic that often stokes tensions. He dismissed the notion that Iraq is being overrun with Iranian proxies as exaggerated. “We want to keep our independence, our decision-making in Iraq as the Iraqis,” he firmly stated, signaling Iraq’s desire to forge its own path without outside interference.
Despite his dismissal of militia activities, the reality is that Iranian influence remains a contentious issue in Washington. According to critics, Iran has ingrained itself in various Iraqi institutions, fostering relationships with Shiite political parties and using militias as tools of power. This connection extends to economic dependencies, as Iraq imports Iranian electricity and natural gas, making it a significant trading partner despite international sanctions against Tehran.
However, Rashid’s leadership represents a counter-narrative. Iraqi nationalist movements are gaining traction, with many opposing Iran’s extensive influence. Nationwide protests have erupted in recent years, signaling a rejection of Tehran’s role in Iraqi politics. The streets of Baghdad have seen citizens actively voicing their discontent toward Iranian interference.
Rashid shared his insights on Iraq’s progress since the removal of Saddam Hussein. He confirmed that Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government have resolved long-standing disputes over oil exports, which is a crucial step for economic recovery. “It’s a big deal,” he explained, acknowledging his Kurdish heritage and the importance of this arrangement for Iraq’s unity and stability.
Rashid’s comments on the upcoming parliamentary elections in November reflect this shift towards democratic norms. “We are going to have elections in November. That’s really an indication of how stable the country is,” he said, emphasizing the importance of a fully democratic process for Iraq’s future.
Yet, alongside this optimistic outlook, challenges persist. The Popular Mobilization Forces, made up mostly of Shiite militias with ties to Iran, remain a powerful presence in Iraq, and critics worry they undermine the government’s authority. Rashid argues that integrating these groups within Iraq’s constitutional framework can actually reinforce state sovereignty rather than diminish it.
On the foreign policy front, Rashid envisions Iraq as a bridge between nations. He expressed cautious support for international peace efforts and described conflicts in the Middle East and beyond as detrimental to finding real solutions. “War doesn’t solve any problem. It makes the problem more complicated,” he concluded, encapsulating a desire for diplomacy over conflict.
As Iraq moves forward, interpretations of its stability will continue to evolve. The interplay between external influences and internal aspirations will shape the trajectory of this nation, and Rashid’s leadership highlights a critical moment in creating a unified and independent Iraq.
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