Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasises Iraq’s sovereignty and national interests amid regional challenges linked to the US-Iran feud and looming elections. His government seeks to maintain balance between external powers, strengthen state authority, and promote political integration of armed factions.
Iraq’s Stance on Sovereignty and Stability
As reported by Ryan Bohl of Newsweek, Prime Minister
Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has made it clear that Iraq’s foremost priority is
putting its nation first, especially amid ongoing US-Iran tensions and the
country's vital upcoming elections. Sudani highlighted the government's
commitment to enforcing the rule of law and ensuring state authority over armed
groups, which has been pivotal in fostering security and stability in Iraq.
Sudani acknowledged that certain armed factions pose challenges but stressed the government’s approach includes legal, political, and security measures designed to incorporate many of these groups into the political process, encouraging peaceful electoral participation.
"A significant portion of these factions is inclined toward political participation, which we encourage," he said.
Navigating Regional Security Threats
The Prime Minister further addressed external threats, including the possibility of Israeli military action against Iraq. He rejected publicly perceived Israeli threats as part of an attempt to escalate conflict by Israeli leadership, stating that
"the government alone determines matters of peace or war."
He emphasised a national consensus to keep Iraq
out of regional wars, which has been essential in preventing conflict within
Iraqi borders.
Sudani also discussed Iraq’s diplomatic role in the wider Middle East, noting its active engagement with the United States and Arab countries to foster peace amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“Iraq played a vital diplomatic role, engaging to seek an end to the conflict,”
he told
Newsweek.
Iraq’s Balanced Relations with the US and Iran
In the tense geopolitical landscape where Iraq is caught
between US and Iranian influences, Sudani underscored Baghdad’s balanced,
cordial relations with both countries. This balance allows Iraq to mediate and
de-escalate tensions through formal dialogue, maintaining national sovereignty
despite the pressures from both sides.
He pointed out the necessity for Iraqi leadership to
prioritise the nation’s interests, reinforcing that all policies aim to enhance
security, development, and the welfare of Iraqi citizens. These aims constitute
the core “Iraq First” platform guiding Sudani’s administration.
Vision for Iraq’s Future
Sudani articulated a long-term vision for Iraq centred on
harnessing its rich 7,000-year history, including the legacy of the Hammurabi
Code, towards shaping a prosperous future. He highlighted the recent centennial
of Iraq’s first constitution as a milestone inspiring the development of a
“Vision 2050” strategic plan aimed at establishing a stable and innovative Iraq
aligned with global economic and technological trends.
This vision also includes creating opportunities for the
youth and improving living conditions. Sudani sees cooperation with the United
States, particularly under former President Donald Trump’s leadership, as
beneficial to Iraq’s developmental aspirations. Sudani regards Trump as an
important ally for fostering economic ties and strengthening Iraq’s role as a
regional trade and innovation hub.
Election Dynamics and Domestic Challenges
According to a report by Zack Beauchamp at Responsible
Statecraft, the upcoming Iraqi election presents unique challenges. Notably,
influential figures like Muqtada al-Sadr have withdrawn from politics, and
powerful groups such as the Badr Organization are contesting the vote. The next
government will face the imperative of continued stability amid these shifting
political dynamics.
Responsible Statecraft also highlights the significance of
Iraq avoiding entanglement in the ongoing US-Iran rivalry, which has manifested
through sanctions, military operations, and diplomatic pressures. Sudani’s
"Iraq First" policy reflects a desire to preserve independence and
stability in the face of these external pressures, especially regarding
contentious armed groups like the Popular Mobilization Forces.
The Thin Line Between Foreign Pressure and National
Sovereignty
Observers at New Lines Institute note that Sudani’s
administration walks a fine line, balancing domestic needs alongside foreign
influence from both the US and Iran. While the government has achieved a
reduction in violence and attracted foreign investment, Iraq continues to
contend with challenges such as water shortages, incomplete security reforms,
and risks of regional conflict.
Sudani’s diplomatic approach aims to reinforce Iraq’s
sovereignty and prevent the country from becoming a proxy battleground, as
echoed by analysts emphasizing the precariousness of Iraq’s position in
regional geopolitics.
Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is steering the country through a complex regional environment marked by US-Iran tensions and internal political shifts. His administration prioritizes national sovereignty, legal authority over armed factions, and balanced foreign relations, while aspiring toward a vision of long-term stability and prosperity. The upcoming elections serve as a crucial juncture for Iraq to maintain its independent course amid powerful external influences.