Does Iraq Support Israel?
The relationship between Iraq and Israel has been a subject of much debate and speculation over the years. Despite being neighbors in the Middle East, the two countries have had a tumultuous history, marked by conflict and mutual animosity. One of the most pressing questions that arise in this context is whether Iraq supports Israel. This article aims to explore this topic, delving into the historical, political, and strategic aspects of the relationship between the two nations.>
The historical context of the relationship between Iraq and Israel is complex and multifaceted. Following the establishment of Israel in 1948, Iraq became one of the first Arab countries to declare war on Israel. This was a result of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the broader regional tensions in the Middle East. Over the years, Iraq has been involved in several wars with Israel, including the Six-Day War in 1967 and the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s. During these conflicts, Iraq has often been portrayed as an enemy of Israel.
However, the political landscape in the Middle East has evolved significantly since the establishment of Israel. The rise of Iran as a regional power and the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 have had a profound impact on the relationship between Iraq and Israel. While the Iraqi government has historically been opposed to Israel, there have been instances where political and strategic considerations have influenced the country’s stance.
One of the most significant developments in the relationship between Iraq and Israel was the 1991 Gulf War. During this conflict, Iraq was supported by a coalition of Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. However, Israel, along with the United States and the United Kingdom, played a crucial role in the war against Iraq. This led to a strained relationship between Iraq and Israel, with the Iraqi government accusing Israel of collaborating with the coalition forces.
In the aftermath of the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, the relationship between the two countries further deteriorated. The new Iraqi government, dominated by Shia Muslim parties, was hostile towards Israel and its supporters. However, the rise of the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria has forced the Iraqi government to reconsider its stance on Israel. In recent years, there have been reports suggesting that the Iraqi government has engaged in covert cooperation with Israel to combat the terrorist group.
Strategically, the relationship between Iraq and Israel is complex. On one hand, Israel has a vested interest in maintaining good relations with its neighbors to ensure its security. On the other hand, Iraq has to navigate the complex web of regional politics, including its relationship with Iran and the US. This has made it difficult for Iraq to take a clear stance on Israel.
In conclusion, while the question of whether Iraq supports Israel remains a topic of debate, it is clear that the relationship between the two countries is complex and multifaceted. Historical animosity, political considerations, and strategic interests have all played a role in shaping this relationship. As the region continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the relationship between Iraq and Israel will develop in the future.>
