Iran’s Foreign Policy Towards Iraq Post 2003

Abstract

This article explores the nature of the fundamental variables that have significantly influenced Iranian foreign policy, focusing on its stance toward Iraq in the post-2003 era. Where the demise of the Baathist regime in Iraq presented Iran with an unprecedented and transformative opportunity to recalibrate its relations with a nation that had traditionally been perceived as one of its most formidable adversaries. Iran's ascension and its role as the primary foreign power broker in Iraq materialized through strategic leveraging of its extensive border with Iraq, coupled with its enduring relationships with influential Iraqi political figures, political factions, and various militant groups. This ascent was achieved by harnessing the dimensions of soft power, particularly in domains such as economics, religion, and the dissemination of information. Drawing from neo-realism, it suggests that nations should strengthen their economies, build domestic military capabilities, forge beneficial alliances, and pursue opposing actions on the global stage. According to this theory, Iran aimed to extend its influence in Iraq by supporting and empowering political and armed groups. Leveraging its extensive border and established relationships with Iraqi figures, parties, and armed groups, Iran has become the foremost foreign facilitator in Iraq. Its soft power, encompassing economics, religion, and information, played a crucial role in this expansion. Furthermore, Iran's involvement in Iraq was closely tied to its broader aspirations for a more prominent position in the Gulf region, aligning with its political, economic, military capabilities, and geopolitical significance.