Iraq’s Leader Seeks an Improbable Prize: Independence From the U.S. and Iran

As Iraq approaches its election, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is campaigning for re-election with a focus on achieving independence from the U.S. and Iran. This goal is seen as improbable given the historical influence both nations have had in Iraq. Al-Sudani's leadership has been marked by efforts to keep Iraq out of regional conflicts, a challenging task considering the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. His stance resonates with a growing sentiment among Iraqis who seek greater sovereignty and control over their national affairs, reflecting a broader desire for self-determination in a region often shaped by external powers.