Stuck in the Middle: Iraq Caught Between the U.S. and Iran

Hudson Institute hosted an event to discuss the role of Iraq as tensions increase between the U.S. and Iran. Panelists included Iraq Analyst Omar Al-Nidawi, the Arabia Foundation’s Geneive Abdo, and the Atlantic Council’s Dr. Abbas Kadhim, with Hudson Senior Fellow Michael Pregent moderating. As tensions continue to mount between the U.S. and Iran, Iraq is stuck in the middle of the escalation. The U.S. recently ordered State Department officials in Iraq to return home amid safety concerns arising from threats from Iranian-influenced actors. This followed a stern warning from Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Iraqi leaders that if they are not going to stand with the U.S. against Iran, they should stand aside. Iran’s influence in Iraq is robust and presents significant challenges to U.S. strategic interests in the region.