Publication

Iraq remains a fragile state deeply traumatized by thirty years of war, sanctions, occupation, and civil strife. Although there are numerous positive signs of progress in Iraq, the risk of acute instability and renewed conflict remains. Already, in the wake of the US military withdrawal in December 2011, Iraq has seen a fierce political struggle between Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and many of his rivals in the Sunni-dominated Iraqiya parliamentary coalition, plus increasing tension with at least some segments of the Kurdish minority. For the positive trends to continue, Iraq will need to contain various threats to internal stability and weather regional turmoil. The US has a significant stake in helping Iraq overcome these challenges.