Baghdad, Iraq – The National newspaper reported that the Iraqi political landscape is undergoing significant shifts, with some figures close to Tehran beginning to distance themselves, coinciding with the increasing likelihood of a US attack on Iran.
According to the newspaper, many countries in the region are anxiously awaiting the extent to
which Donald Trump is serious about carrying out his threats of military action;
a scenario that could weaken the Iranian regime’s position to an unprecedented degree.
Shifting allegiances: Tehran as a sinking ship
The newspaper quoted analysts as saying that Iranian influence, which has been entrenched in Iraqi politics since 2003, is now facing a real test.
Despite Tehran’s long-standing support for various parties and armed groups,
the report indicated that some Iraqi actors now view Iran as a “sinking ship.”
They also fear that continued rapprochement with Tehran could harm their political interests and internal stability in light of international pressure.
The potential repercussions of an attack
The National explained that any US attack could not only weaken Iran internally,
but its effects would extend to include:
A decline in regional proxies, potentially diminishing the influence of Iranian-backed groups
such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen.
The risk of these groups targeting US bases in the region, and the escalation of tensions,
could lead to widespread disruptions in the global energy market.
