On the Road: In Iraq... Who Rules Whom?!
Each time a neighboring state is attacked from Iraqi territory, the Iraqi government announces the opening of an investigation. However, the pressing question is: how many investigations have been launched, how many results have been announced, and how many entities have been held accountable? The recurrence of this scenario does not bolster confidence; rather, it reinforces the impression that the state remains incapable of monopolizing security decision-making.
Moreover, many wonder whether the Iraqi government waits for these militias to issue a statement claiming responsibility for such acts before taking action. Enough with lies, deception, and fraud that no longer fool anyone! Therefore, it is the right of the Saudi Air Force and the air forces of the Gulf Arab states to bomb those rotten dens where terrorists, purportedly linked to Iraq and backed by Iran, congregate. Undoubtedly, Iranian influence within Iraq represents one of the most significant challenges to national decision-making independence. Armed factions loyal to the Tehran regime wield extensive political, military, and economic influence, enabling them to operate outside the framework of state institutions. Many believe that the Iranian regime, facing economic pressures and international sanctions, still considers Iraq its most important strategic card and seeks to maintain this influence by all means.
It is alarming that official visits between Baghdad and Tehran coincide with security incidents targeting Gulf states, including reports of drones being fired toward countries in the region. Even if no faction claims responsibility, such events cast a shadow on Iraq’s image and its regional relations, imposing a doubled responsibility on the government to uncover the truth and take decisive measures.
Iraq’s relations with Kuwait and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states are not marginal; they represent a strategic opportunity for Iraq to enhance investment, development, and stability. These relations cannot flourish while armed groups continue to operate outside state authority or threaten the security of neighboring countries.
Therefore, what is required today is not merely condemnation statements or investigation committees, but a transition to enforcing the law, monopolizing weapons in the hands of the state, and holding accountable anyone proven involved in any attack according to the law and evidence, while transparently announcing investigation results to the public.
Iraq’s restoration of its Arab and regional role begins with reclaiming the state’s prestige and sovereignty over its entire territory. Nations are measured by their ability to enforce the law, protect their neighbors from any threat emanating from their soil, and safeguard their national interests free from external influence. This is the true challenge facing Baghdad today, and it is the benchmark that will determine the future of its relations with its Gulf and Arab neighborhood.
