Crisis Group: Why Iraq–Türkiye Ties Are Critical
As geopolitical tensions continue to reshape the Middle East, a new report by the International Crisis Group calls for a strategic strengthening of Iraq–Türkiye relations, warning that unmanaged disputes risk undermining both countries’ security and economic interests.
The report, titled “Strengthening Iraq–Türkiye Ties Amid Regional Tensions,” examines the bilateral relationship at a moment when conflicts in Gaza, Syria, and the Red Sea are reverberating across the region. Against this backdrop, the authors argue that closer coordination between Ankara and Baghdad is no longer optional, but necessary.
Why the Relationship Matters
According to the Crisis Group, Iraq and Türkiye share overlapping priorities that include border security, trade, energy transit, and the containment of non-state armed groups. Türkiye is one of Iraq’s largest trading partners, while Iraq remains strategically important for Türkiye’s regional connectivity and security planning.
The report notes that cooperation has recently gained momentum, particularly following renewed diplomatic engagement and security talks. However, it cautions that long-standing disputes, especially related to military operations in northern Iraq and the presence of the PKK, continue to strain trust.
One key assessment in the report states that without structured dialogue and agreed mechanisms, security cooperation risks becoming a source of friction rather than stability.
Security, Sovereignty and the PKK Issue
A central focus of the report is the PKK’s presence in northern Iraq, which Türkiye views as a direct national security threat. The Crisis Group acknowledges Türkiye’s security concerns, while emphasizing that unilateral military actions can create political pressure on Baghdad and complicate Iraq’s internal balance.
The report argues that more sustainable results are likely if security coordination is embedded in joint frameworks that respect Iraqi sovereignty while addressing Türkiye’s core security priorities.
Economic and Regional Dimensions
Beyond security, the Crisis Group highlights the economic upside of improved relations, particularly in trade, reconstruction, and energy transit. Projects such as transportation corridors and energy cooperation could deliver tangible benefits to both sides, especially at a time when Iraq seeks investment and Türkiye aims to strengthen regional economic ties.
The report also situates Iraq–Türkiye relations within a broader regional context, noting that escalating conflicts elsewhere in the Middle East increase the value of predictable and cooperative bilateral relationships.
One passage stresses that in an increasingly polarized region, pragmatic cooperation between neighboring states can act as a stabilizing force rather than a source of rivalry.
Key Takeaway
The Crisis Group concludes that Iraq and Türkiye have a shared interest in moving from crisis management to long-term cooperation, combining security dialogue with economic and diplomatic engagement. Failure to do so, the report warns, could deepen mistrust and limit both countries’ ability to navigate regional instability.
***Source and Full Report:
This article is based on the analysis published by the International Crisis Group: