Iraqi Foreign Policy After 2014: Challenges and Opportunities

Iraqi foreign policy since 2014 has witnessed several political, economic, security, and military challenges, which have had a significant impact on the effectiveness of Iraqi diplomacy in regional and international interactions. Despite these challenges and threats, Iraq possesses the capabilities that enable it to be an effective player in the region, especially if these capabilities are utilized in a manner consistent with Iraq's national priorities and in a manner that achieves its supreme national interest. This requires foreign policy decision-makers to prioritize the national interest and adopt strategic partnerships with countries, avoiding axes and blocs, regardless of their objectives, and making Iraq an element of balance and stability in the turbulent regional and international environment. This requires the use of Iraqi diplomacy to achieve Iraq's supreme national goals and interests, making it a starting point for cooperation between the countries of the region, now and in the future.