As the flames of conflict spread, Iraqis—much like the Palestinians and Lebanese before them—could find themselves ensnared in a struggle they neither instigated nor can control

Its central location has made it a crucial hub. Today, Iraq not only trafficks drugs but produces them, and 60% of its citizens are now users. Unemployment and corruption have fuelled the problem.

Once part of the elite, the fortunes of the country's 'third nationality' have fallen. Politically sidelined for supporting Turkey, Iraq's Turkmen have had enough and are now starting to leave.

On Monday, three rockets were fired at the Victoria military base in Baghdad hosting US troops. A day earlier, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed a drone attack on the Israeli port city of Eilat.

Erbil voted to go it alone in 2017, but that was when it controlled its own oil to sell through Turkey. Today, it does neither. With no partners on the horizon, it is left seeking central handouts.

Amid attempts to bring Tehran and Baghdad closer to the KDP, relations shift and sway as involved players look for their interests. Add Turkey into the mix, and things get even more complicated.

In a bid to expand trade opportunities and diversify its economy, Iraq has drawn up plans for the Iraq Development Road. If realised, it would be a 1,200km twin rail and road transportation corridor…

Al Majalla devotes its September cover story to Iraq, offering in-depth articles and analyses on the international and regional power struggles for influence within the country

A colossal infrastructure project costing $17bn has not yet enticed Beijing. Cost, security, uncertainty, and alternatives are just some of the reasons. So, will Baghdad bag its Beijing sponsor?

Will Iraq regain its stature as an important regional player or surrender itself to foreign influences?