Iraq’s new government enters office after months of paralysis, shaped by domestic rivalry and external pressure. The incoming administration faces early challenges, as conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has intensified economic pressure through disruption to energy markets and supply. Can Iraqis be confident in Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi’s ability to crackdown on corruption, stabilize the economy and assert Iraq’s sovereignty?
- What does al-Zaidi’s appointment reveal about Iraq’s political balance?
- How likely is it that the government’s actions against corruption succeed?
- How vulnerable is the government to domestic unrest, economic strain or fragmentation?
- Do shifting regional dynamics create space for the new government to better defend Iraq’s sovereignty?
- How will regional tensions shape Iraq’s ties with the US and Gulf states?
- Can the government maintain stability under external pressure?
