Iraqi government Commentary

A Government for Baghdad

Over four months since the election, and Iraq still doesn’t have a government. Should Washington do anything about it?

Iraq is Defenseless

Baghdad can’t fight off its more powerful neighbors. U.S. policy has created a dangerous power vacuum in the Middle East.

The Saudis go to Baghdad

Saudi Arabia isn't shy about associating with Iraq anymore. But Riyadh is overlooking Maliki, pulling for Allawi to come out on top in the elections.

Keeping Baghdad Stable

Iraq could explode in chaos if ethno-religious minorities aren’t given influence in the new government.

Four Crises

Instead of focusing on the peace process in Israel, Obama needs to pay attention to developing crises in the wider Middle East.

Iraq's Long, Hot Summer?

Washington must allow Iraqis to form a government on their own terms. If it forces a solution, Iraq could descend into chaos once again.

Make a Deal with Iran

With instability in the Middle East now compounded by a resurgent Russia, the time is ripe to push for a major breakthrough in U.S.-Iran relations.

Barack in Iraq

The hullabaloo over Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s quasi-endorsement of Obama’s withdrawal plan won’t be dying down anytime soon—and it will continue to give John McCain grief.

Opportunity Knocked

America has an opportunity to forge an historic deal with Iran, but the Bush administration seems determined to quash it. Why everything you know about Tehran is wrong.

Jacob's Jottings: Tell Me How this Ends

En route to Baghdad in 2003, General David Petraeus asked a reporter to “tell me how this ends.” Five years later, that’s still up in the air.

Follow The National Interest

May 26, 2012