Description: Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al – Sudani had announced Iraq’s plans on signing a security cooperation agreement with Great Britain. The agreement would enhance cooperation between the countries in a crucial period of time when Iraq is trying to avoid becoming a conflict zone once again. Details regarding the agreement haven’t been disclosed but indications on providing security to Iraq’s fragile economy were noted.
Impact: Iraq’s sensitive economic and political situation puts the country at further risk of conflict escalation after Bashar al – Assad’s fall in Syria and Hamas and Hezbollah’s defeats in the Middle East. Insurgent groups allied to Iran also pose a threat to Iraq’s stability which could result in the reopening of the Iraqi war theater on a smaller scale. Western presence and support are crucial to avoiding future destabilization of the region in the midst of growing conflict tensions.