Iraq in the Gulf regional perception

Authors

  • Yasser jaafar haider Faculty of Political Science - Mustansiriyah University.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31272/ipj.i65.532

Keywords:

Iraq, Gulf,Regional Interests,arab relations, balance of power, Gulf rapprochement

Abstract

Iraq distinguished by its important geopolitical strategic location , which  makes it an focal point for the regional and even international orientations of neighboring countries. The Iraqi arena has witnessed many international and regional clashes and conflicts, due to the rapid changes in the centers of power within the international system, which have political and economic interests in the region, as they seek to establish their footholds and strengthen their bases there. This was particularly evident after the vacuum created by the U.S. occupation of Iraq in 2003, which altered the political system and even the sectarian power equation. Despite the regional rejection that accompanied the changes in Iraq, in recent years, we have seen some regional and Gulf countries in particular begin to reopen the dialogue and establish diplomatic relations with Iraq, as the latter possesses significant energy resources and is considered a hub for international and regional trade. This is where the importance of the study lies, as most studies focus on the regional and international countries' perspectives on Iraq and their impact on Iraqi foreign policy, which has witnessed fluctuations due to the orientations of successive governments, especially after 2003. However, our study aims to highlight the significance of Iraq to regional and Gulf countries and explore the sources of strength that Iraq possesses, which qualify it to rise to a regional and international level that matches its status and natural size.

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Additional Files

Published

2026-02-02

How to Cite

haider, Y. jaafar . . (2026). Iraq in the Gulf regional perception. The International and Political Journal, (65), 433–445. https://doi.org/10.31272/ipj.i65.532