Expert Outlines Vision for Iraq's Future Under Trump Administration

A recent seminar hosted by the Capitol Institute at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., provided crucial insights into Iraq's political landscape and its potential trajectory under President-elect Donald Trump's administration. The event, which took place on December 16, 2024, brought together experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Iraq in the context of shifting global and regional politics.

Professor AbdulNaser AlJanabi, a prominent Iraqi politician and leader of the National Council of the Iraqi Opposition, delivered a comprehensive analysis of Iraq's current political and economic conditions. AlJanabi emphasized the importance of establishing a government that prioritizes the welfare of all Iraqis and addresses the country's long-standing issues of corruption and weak governance.

According to AlJanabi, Iraq's population comprises 58% Sunnis (including Arab, Kurdish, and Turkmen), 38% Arab Shiites, and 4% Christians and other sects. This demographic breakdown underscores the need for inclusive leadership that can unite the diverse population. AlJanabi highlighted the formation of the National Council of Opposition, a coalition representing over 70 diverse groups, as a step towards creating a unified front to address Iraq's challenges.

The seminar shed light on several pressing issues facing Iraq, including the need for judicial reform and the release of unjustly detained individuals. AlJanabi called for a general amnesty for the reported 300,000 detainees, including 20,000 women, and a review of the 35,000 individuals allegedly sentenced to death unjustly. These figures underscore the scale of the human rights concerns in the country and the urgent need for reform.

A key focus of the discussion was the potential for improved U.S.-Iraq relations under the Trump administration. AlJanabi expressed optimism about building a stronger partnership, emphasizing the desire for "genuine deals and agreements between a patriotic, non-corrupt Iraqi government and the incoming American administration." This sentiment reflects a hope for a reset in bilateral relations that could benefit both nations.

The seminar also addressed the critical role of Iraq's natural resources in driving economic development and reconstruction. AlJanabi highlighted oil, natural gas, and minerals as key assets that could fuel Iraq's growth. However, he stressed the importance of accountability and the need to address the misappropriation of public funds, emphasizing that justice must be a cornerstone of Iraq's future.

In a forward-looking proposal, AlJanabi called for the establishment of a national salvation government to tackle Iraq's immediate and long-term challenges. This government would aim to protect Iraq's sovereignty while promoting regional stability and fostering international cooperation. The proposal includes drafting a new constitution based on principles of justice, citizenship, resource preservation, and peaceful power transfer, to be ratified through a national referendum.

The implications of this seminar and AlJanabi's proposals are significant for Iraq's future and its relations with the United States. A stable, prosperous Iraq could contribute to regional security and serve as a valuable partner for the U.S. in the Middle East. The emphasis on transparency, justice, and sustainable development aligns with broader international goals and could attract support from the global community.

For the incoming Trump administration, these discussions present both challenges and opportunities. Engaging with a unified Iraqi opposition that seeks reform and stability could offer a path to reshaping U.S. policy in the region. However, navigating the complex political landscape and addressing long-standing issues will require careful diplomacy and sustained commitment.

As Iraq continues to grapple with the legacy of past conflicts and current challenges, the vision outlined in this seminar provides a roadmap for potential progress. The success of these proposals will depend on the ability of Iraqi leaders to implement reforms, the willingness of the international community to support these efforts, and the approach taken by the incoming U.S. administration in its engagement with Iraq.