What Iraq could learn from Kurdistan Region's ties with the Gulf

Baghdad has long tried to get closer to Gulf states, but despite being a state, they have been unable to have a fruitful and strong relationship with Gulf states, unlike the country’s northern autonomous Kurdistan Region which boasts economic partnership with the Gulf.

Bizhar Shareef & Dilan Sirwan

Opinion

PKK dissolves: Will lasting peace follow in Turkey and the wider region?

A seminal declaration by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) that the militant group would bring an end to four decades of insurgency against the Turkish state has ushered in a new era of both hope and uncertainty, with many details of the process to follow remaining hazy.

Mohammed A. Salih

Opinion

The historical end of PKK’s armed struggle against Turkey; what is next?

The PKK has announced its disbandment, ending decades of armed struggle against Turkey. The move, driven by military setbacks and calls for democracy, opens a chance for peace—but risks remain if Turkey fails to enact meaningful reforms and address Kurdish rights

Hassan Ahmad Mustafa

Opinion

Baghdad's dry tourism: Alcohol ban raises questions  

As Baghdad promotes itself as the Arab Tourism Capital, a strict alcohol ban is raising questions about constitutional rights and cultural traditions.

Ahmed Saadawi

Opinion

The Syria of Sharaa and the Syria of Kurds and minorities

In the wake of a historic conference that saw Syria's most prominent Kurdish blocs gather to assert common demands for minority rights in the new Syria, their vision of a "multi-ethnic, multicultural, multi-religious" state faces challenges under the leadership of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Mohammed A. Salih

Opinion

Iran's nuclear gambit: Araghchi dangles a deal—will Trump bite?

Any success by the US and Iran in bridging their differences and closing an accord that equally addresses their core demands could mark significant shifts in the regional and global political landscape. Iran's chief negotiator has now offered President Trump a charming deal. Will it clear the immense hurdles ahead?

Hiwa Hawrami

Opinion

US-Iran talks: What does Iraq stand to gain or lose?

If the US manages to decouple Iraq from Iran’s grip—whether by neutralizing militias or weaning Baghdad off Iranian energy—it could help Iraq take more control of its own future. But if talks collapse, and tensions escalate into conflict, Iraq may once again become another battleground between the US and Iran; an outcome many Iraqis never asked for, but can’t avoid.

Mohammed A. Salih

Opinion

The biggest threat to Iraq's future: A drop in oil prices

In simple terms, Iraq exports roughly 3.2 to 3.4 million barrels per day; a drop in oil prices of only one dollar per barrel would lose Iraq between 3.2 and 3.4 million dollars per day.

Peshraw Mirany

Opinion

Federalism or secession for Iraq’s Shiites: Genuine political project or tactical rhetoric?

This kind of talk is unprecedented in Iraqi politics—at least in recent memory—given both its nature and the stature of those articulating it. Given its growing frequency, it can no longer be dismissed as mere personal opinion.

Mohammed A. Salih

Opinion

Syria’s new constitution: Dashing hopes for progress

While many in Syria initially extended goodwill to Sharaa, hoping his actions would align with his rhetoric of inclusivity and tolerance, the interim constitution—arguably the most critical document in shaping the post-Assad transition—delivers a serious blow to that goodwill and the prospects for a stable and peaceful Syria.

Mohammed A. Salih

Opinion