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

Published



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.”

Full midterm coverage.Deeper analysis.

Get unlimited access to Washington Examiner's reporting, expert analysis, and coverage of the midterm elections.

Get Unlimited Access

Cancel anytime.