By Anas al-Bar | 2026-10-10

Iraq is currently advancing a comprehensive national project to build an independent state defined by balanced foreign relations and sovereign decision-making.

The recent conclusion of the US's anti "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" (ISIS) mission and Turkey’s handover of Bashiqa camp signal a monumental shift forward.

Experts view this transition as the state finally assuming full responsibility for protecting national airspace while effectively managing its internal affairs.

This development reinforces independent decision-making, strengthening political, strategic and economic autonomy against any encroaching foreign influence on Iraq's national stability.

It shields the country from external pressures while aligning with the constitution and the urgent goals of sustainable national development.

State control over security forces

Strategy expert Tariq al-Shammari notes government efforts to neutralize Iranian interference by monopolizing arms and dismantling all Iran-aligned militias.

"The state's constitutional right to protect the country through legitimate armed forces remains a fundamental cornerstone of sovereignty," he told Al-Fassel.

There is simply no room in the coming phase for rogue militias that drag Iraq toward an existential, dark abyss.

By prioritizing state security institutions, Baghdad actively rejects those who serve foreign agendas rather than the interests of the Iraqi people.

This decisive consolidation of military authority ensures that the government alone determines the critical matters of national war and peace.

Achieving true economic strategic independence

Economic autonomy is essential for sovereignty, and Iraq is making significant strides by increasing oil exports to record daily levels.

Baghdad is signing diverse economic partnerships, actively opening its doors to nations seeking cooperation rather than coercive, unilateral political influence.

Sanctions on Iran limit its ability to exploit Iraq's resources, while aviation bans transform Baghdad into a vital transit hub.

"Iran must not be handed tools for blackmail or be empowered to manipulate Iraqi sovereignty," al-Shammari noted.

Reducing reliance on Iranian gas is critical, as such dependency historically aims to weaken Iraq's national wealth and plunder resources.

Balanced partnerships drive future growth

Baghdad is aggressively pursuing energy independence by investing in massive gas projects, renewable energy and crucial electrical grid interconnections.

Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi recently emphasized in New York that Iraq's foreign vision is built entirely on mutual interest.

Iraq firmly rejects the politics of regional axes, seeking instead sustainable, trusting partnerships that safeguard its strategic national interests abroad.

These international collaborations will attract vital investment and engage global partners to support Iraq’s critical reconstruction and long-term development.

By launching the ambitious "Development Road" project, the nation is positioning itself as a central, independent player in the region.