Debate continues in Iraq over the country’s relationship with the United States, especially following recent discussions about expanding the role of American companies in Iraq after the planned military withdrawal.
Some political figures argue that Iraq should reduce its dependence on Washington in financial and economic matters. Hussein Mardan, a member of the State of Law Coalition, claimed that the United States has significant influence over Iraq’s banking sector and accused Washington of limiting the development of an independent Iraqi banking system through sanctions on certain local banks.
Mardan argued that restrictions placed on some Iraqi banks, particularly Islamic and investment banks, have weakened local competition and called on Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi to raise the issue during his talks with U.S. officials.
Ali Hussein, a member of the Coordination Framework, said Iraq’s sovereignty should be the top priority in any discussions with the United States. He stressed that financial, economic, security, and territorial sovereignty are closely connected and should remain central to Iraq’s national interests.
According to Hussein, strengthening Iraqi sovereignty would help the country better manage its economic, political, and security affairs, especially amid ongoing regional tensions.
However, not everyone shares concerns that Iraq’s economy could become overly dependent on the United States. Political analyst Kamel Al-Kinani argued that claims of the Iraqi economy being “mortgaged” to Washington are exaggerated.
Al-Kinani noted that major trade and strategic agreements cannot be approved by the government alone. Under Iraq’s constitutional system, such agreements require parliamentary approval and support from political blocs before they can take effect.
He also pointed out that American companies have been operating in Iraq since 2003 across various sectors, including energy and oil. However, he questioned their overall effectiveness, arguing that many projects have not produced the expected results.
According to Al-Kinani, Iraq continues to face major challenges in electricity generation and energy development despite years of involvement by foreign companies. He said this raises important questions about the role and effectiveness of American firms in future development projects.
The discussion reflects broader political divisions in Iraq over economic partnerships, foreign investment, national sovereignty, and the country’s long-term relationship with the United States.
