On December 16, 2024, the Capitol Institute convened a seminar at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., focusing on ‘The Political Future of Iraq Under President-Elect Donald Trump’s Administration.’ The event brought together experts to analyze Iraq’s challenges and prospects in light of shifting global and regional politics.
Moderated by senior journalist Maria Maalouf, the seminar featured Professor AbdulNaser AlJanabi, a former Iraqi Council of Representatives member and leader of the National Council of the Iraqi Opposition. AlJanabi provided a comprehensive overview of Iraq’s current political and economic situation, emphasizing the potential influence of the incoming Trump administration on U.S.-Iraq relations.
AlJanabi highlighted the demographic composition of Iraq, noting that Sunnis constitute 58% of the population, while Arab Shiites make up 38%, and other groups represent 4%. He detailed the formation of the National Council of Opposition, a coalition of over 70 diverse groups aimed at addressing Iraq’s challenges through unified action.
The Iraqi politician expressed concerns about corruption in past governments and emphasized the need for sincere leadership committed to the welfare of all Iraqis. AlJanabi called for significant reforms, including the suspension of unjust execution sentences and the release of detainees through a general amnesty, citing alarming figures of 300,000 detainees, 20,000 detained women, and 35,000 individuals unjustly sentenced to death.
Expressing optimism about future cooperation with the Trump administration, AlJanabi stated, ‘We aim to strike genuine deals and agreements between a patriotic, non-corrupt Iraqi government and the incoming American administration. We want in Iraq, a state under the rule of law and justice.’ He also questioned the legitimacy of recent elections, claiming that ’90 percent of the Iraqi people fully recognize that the recent elections were corrupt and false.’
AlJanabi emphasized the importance of Iraq’s natural resources in driving economic development and reconstruction. He extended an invitation to American corporations to contribute to Iraq’s rebuilding efforts and proposed the establishment of a national salvation government to address immediate and long-term challenges.
The seminar underscored the complex issues facing Iraq in its pursuit of sovereignty, stability, and prosperity. AlJanabi and the National Council of Opposition highlighted the urgent need for transparent governance, justice, and sustainable development. The discussions marked a critical step in shaping the discourse on Iraq’s political future under a new U.S. administration.
This seminar is significant as it provides insights into potential shifts in U.S.-Iraq relations under the Trump administration and highlights the challenges and opportunities for Iraq’s political and economic future. The event’s focus on rebuilding efforts, justice reform, and strategic partnerships could have far-reaching implications for regional stability and international cooperation in the Middle East.
The Capitol Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating dialogue between the Middle East and the United States, organized the seminar. The institute aims to educate international communities about U.S. policies and explores strategies for homeland security, foreign policy, and global policy communities.
For more information about the Capitol Institute and its initiatives, visit https://capitolinstitute.org.
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