Trending Echoes Podcast S2 | The Future of Iraq: Where Is It Headed? | Imad Bajlan

In this episode of Trending Echoes, host Hamad Abdulla Alhosani, Senior Researcher at TRENDS Research & Advisory, sits down with Emad Bajalan, Iraqi Kurdish politician and political commentator, for a wide-ranging discussion on Iraq’s political and security landscape. The conversation explores the role of militias, regional security, Iraq’s relations with the Gulf states and Iran, the fight against ISIS, and the far-reaching impact of corruption on governance and economic development. The episode also examines Iraq’s future, the importance of strengthening state institutions, and the lessons that can be drawn from successful regional development models. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Who is Emad Bajalan? 03:06 Militias and attacks on the Gulf states 08:13 The threat of ISIS and Iraq’s security 09:55 Can Iraq disarm the militias? 13:45 U.S. presence and Iraq’s regional role 17:03 Iraq’s relationship with Iran 21:31 Iraq and the Gulf: The road ahead 23:05 Corruption and the future of Iraq 43:14 Final message and closing remarks Tune in for an insightful conversation that unpacks the complexities of Iraq’s political landscape, regional security, and the future of governance in the Middle East. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to TRENDING ECHOES for more expert discussions on the issues shaping our world.