Iraq is undergoing a significant transformation in its foreign policy, with a focus on achieving national sovereignty, economic integration, and diplomatic balance. Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al-Sudani’s administration has embarked on reshaping Iraq’s role in the region, positioning the country as a proactive mediator, self-reliant actor, and emerging economic hub.
The vision for Iraq’s resurgence centers on a straightforward but powerful policy: “Iraq First.” Prime Minister Al-Sudani articulated this theme in his April 2024 article in Foreign Affairs, emphasizing the priority of Iraq’s sovereignty and national interests. “Our priority is to rebuild Iraq based on its national interests, rather than serve as a battleground for regional rivalries,” he wrote. This “Iraq First” policy reflects a broader ambition to reduce Iraq’s reliance on external powers and focus on domestic stability and growth.
Central to this vision is the reorientation of Iraq’s relationships with its neighbors. Iraq aims to foster economic cooperation rather than conflict, seeking mutual benefits with countries such as Türkiye, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. “We are building an Iraq that can stand on its own, driven by economic cooperation with our neighbors and investments that benefit our people first,” Al-Sudani emphasized. This shift represents a significant departure from the past when Iraq was a battleground for geopolitical struggles.
In reclaiming full sovereignty, Iraq has also moved towards ending the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) by 2025. Additionally, the government is working closely with the International Coalition fighting ISIS, aiming to transition from military support to stable bilateral relations with coalition members. These efforts underscore Al-Sudani’s commitment to steering Iraq away from prolonged conflict and towards a more stable and self-sufficient future.
Over the past two years, the government has initiated several high-profile infrastructure projects to drive Iraq’s economic revival and regional integration. Among these is the Development Road initiative, an ambitious project aimed at positioning Iraq as a critical transit hub connecting Europe with the Gulf and Asia. Al-Sudani has described the initiative as “a bridge that connects Iraq with the world and drives our economic revival.” The project, designed to facilitate trade and logistics, will be implemented in collaboration with Türkiye, Qatar, the UAE, and other regional partners.
In addition, Iraq has earmarked approximately $3 billion for the construction of a new oil pipeline between Basra and Haditha. This project will serve as a northern hub for oil exports, allowing Iraq to diversify its export routes and reduce its reliance on the Gulf. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries, including Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan, while bolstering Iraq’s influence in regional and global energy markets.
Another significant development is Iraq’s increasing integration into the regional energy network. By establishing new electricity grid connections with Türkiye, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Iraq seeks to stabilize its domestic energy supply while deepening its role in regional energy cooperation. This vision aligns with Iraq’s broader goal of fostering an interconnected Middle East that thrives on mutual dependence and cooperation.
In addition to its economic initiatives, Iraq has adopted a balanced diplomatic stance on regional conflicts. This is particularly evident in Iraq’s position on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Al-Sudani has been vocal in his support for the Palestinian cause while advocating for political and diplomatic solutions. During his speech at the first Cairo summit in October 2023, he emphasized Iraq’s stance against what he described as the aggression of the occupying forces. He reaffirmed the country’s long-standing support for Palestine through aid and diplomatic efforts, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the opening of borders to allow humanitarian aid, the establishment of a reconstruction fund for Gaza, and the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and statehood.
At the same time, Iraq’s unique geopolitical position—maintaining strong ties with Iran, Türkiye, the Gulf states, and Western powers—has enabled it to act as a mediator in regional disputes. By leveraging these relationships, Iraq has worked to defuse potential crises before they escalate. “Iraq must be a mediator, not a participant, in conflicts that do not serve our national interests,” Al-Sudani has stressed. This approach reflects Iraq’s broader ambition to reclaim control over its foreign policy, free from external influence.
Iraq’s vision today represents a stark contrast to its past policies, when the country was frequently caught in the crosshairs of regional conflicts. For decades, Iraq’s sovereignty was undermined by sectarian divisions and foreign interventions, limiting its ability to act independently on the world stage. However, the “Iraq First” policy signals a shift toward a future where Iraq’s destiny is shaped by its own citizens.
Another important shift in the policy is the follow up on promises and commitments that are given to many countries, one of the major complaints and sometimes criticisms faced Iraq was lack of follow up on signed agreements or promises made. This administration is meticulous in follow up to deliver on Iraq’s commitment. Our partners now see in Iraq a real partner as they see implementation of policy and not just signed documents left on a shelf.
Domestically, the government’s program has focused on reforms aimed at combating corruption, improving governance, and rebuilding infrastructure. These efforts are intended to create a more resilient state, capable of asserting its influence in the region. This internal focus represents a significant shift in priorities, emphasizing rebuilding Iraq over the external interventions of the past.
In a previous article, I said, “Iraq is now poised to play the pivotal role it is destined to play in the region,” and I still believe that Iraq is undergoing a transformation that could reshape its role in the Middle East. The “Iraq First” policy reflects a commitment to sovereignty, economic integration, and diplomatic balance, positioning Iraq as a potential stabilizing force in the region.
By spearheading initiatives like the Development Road and pursuing an independent foreign policy, Iraq is beginning to assert itself as a key player in regional geopolitics. Iraq’s future should be determined by Iraqis themselves, and this vision of sovereignty and integration may pave the way for a new era of growth and stability, allowing Iraq to emerge as both a leader in regional diplomacy and a hub for economic development.
