The Conflict of Interests between Iran and Turkiye in Iraq; An Analvsis Based on the Neorealist Theory

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran (Corresponding author).

2 PhD student in Political Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.

Abstract

This study examines the simultaneous pattern of conflict and cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Turkey in Iraq. In light of recent geopolitical developments, from the fight against ISIS and the political dynamics of the Kurdistan Region to the “Development Road” project and the redefinition of Turkey’s relations with the central government in Baghdad and Arab states, the foreign policies of both countries in Iraq have entered a new phase. Turkey, while maintaining its presence and influence in the northern regions and sustaining extensive economic interactions with the Kurdistan Region, has also expanded its political and economic cooperation with the central government. In contrast, Iran, by preserving strategic ties with Baghdad and Shia political groups, seeks to maintain its security and economic influence. This situation has simultaneously created grounds for competition in geopolitical, energy, and cultural spheres, as well as opportunities for cooperation in border security, trade, and addressing common threats. The study, grounded in the neorealist theory that emphasizes the role of the international system’s structure and power competition, aims to analyze the behavioral patterns of these two actors in Iraq. The central research question is: “How does the conflict of interests between Iran and Turkey in Iraq influence their foreign policies, and what implications does it have for regional stability?” Based on this question, the research hypothesis posits that the strategic rivalry between Iran and Turkey in Iraq, driven by geopolitical, security, economic, and cultural divergences, has led to the adoption of reciprocal and divergent policies that challenge Iraq’s internal stability and regional security. The methodology is descriptive and analytical, relying on data collected from library sources, official documents, and up-to-date reports from research centers. The findings indicate that recent trends in investment, security developments, and regional relations have further complicated the competition–cooperation pattern between the two countries, producing multidimensional implications for Iraq’s future and the balance of power in the Middle East.

Keywords

References

منابع
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Mesopotamian Political Studies
Volume 4, Issue 1
March 2025
Pages 73-107

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History

  • Receive Date: 19 July 2025
  • Revise Date: 19 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 25 August 2025

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