Iraq’s sovereignty cannot grow while U.S. power only changes shape

Iraq’s sovereignty cannot grow while U.S. power only changes shape

By Sophia Gonzalez In U.S. political talk, Iraq is often treated as a “finished chapter.” The invasion is history, the occupation is history, and even the war against ISIS is presented as something largely completed. Yet in 2025, Iraqis are still living with the consequences of decisions made in Washington, and U.S. power in their country is not disappearing – it is simply changing shape. In September 2024, the United States and Iraq announced t…

Guest Column: Iraq’s sovereignty cannot grow while U.S. power only changes shape

BY SOPHIA GONZALEZ In U.S. political talk, Iraq is often treated as a “finished chapter.” The invasion is history, the occupation is history, and even the war against ISIS is presented as something largely completed. Yet in 2025, Iraqis are still living with the consequences of decisions made in Washington, and U.S. power in their country is not disappearing — it is simply changing shape. In September 2024, the United States and Iraq announced t…