Iraq hedges its bets, cozies up to Iran as US pullout looms

Published June 30, 2021 9:00am ET



U.S. airstrikes against camps used by Iranian proxies in Iraq and Syria aren’t substantial enough to fortify an eroding U.S. position as a key Iraqi leader appears to be hedging his bets about U.S. support, say analysts familiar with the internal power dynamics of the country.

“They can rebuild that within days,” New Lines Institute senior analyst Rasha Al Aqeedi said. “It’s not a huge deal.”

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.