Turkish-Iranian Competition over Iraq (2002–2014)

This study analyzes the nature of Turkish–Iranian competition over Iraq during the period (2002–2014), considering it one of the most significant manifestations of regional rivalry in the Middle East following the geopolitical changes after 2003. The research aims to examine the strategic objectives of both Turkey and Iran toward Iraq, as well as to identify the political, economic, and security tools they employed to expand their influence within the Iraqi arena. It also explores the impacts of this competition on Iraq’s political and security stability and its internal and regional relations. The importance of this study lies in its contribution to understanding the complex nature of this regional conflict and its role in shaping modern Iraq, particularly amid the overlap of regional and international interests. The research focuses on the political, economic, and security dimensions that have shaped the trilateral relationship between Iraq, Turkey, and Iran, while analyzing the dynamics of interaction and rivalry among them. Furthermore, it provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of this trilateral relationship and highlights the key factors influencing its trajectory in light of regional and international developments, offering a deeper analytical insight into regional power balances in Iraq.