Global
US special envoy to Iraq Tom Barrack acknowledged that the United States bears significant responsibility for its actions in Iraq over the past 23 years, admitting that the country was not a good guest during that time. He explained that the current American vision, led by President Donald Trump, is based on allowing Iraq to determine its own path, aiming for a unified and prosperous Iraq. This was stated during a dialogue session hosted by the Chatham House Institute, where Barrack emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes and taking responsibility for the previous experience in Iraq. He pointed out that Washington had not previously adhered to the principle of allowing Iraq to manage its own affairs, which the current administration seeks to change. Regarding the regional situation, Barrack noted the complexities Iraq faces due to its more than 500 kilometers of border with Iran, as well as the shared religious ties between the two countries. He affirmed that the relationship between the US and Iraq is clearly different from that with Tehran. The US envoy stressed the necessity for Iraq to play an active role in the region, relying on understanding, interaction, and trade to open new horizons in its external relations. He also called for strengthening the rule of law in the country, noting that many major investment companies are eager to enter and operate in the Iraqi market.
