Iraq-Iran relations following the nuclear deal

Critics of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have warned that Iran would use any financial benefits to further strengthen its influence in the region, by supporting its allies, which include important Shia militias in Iraq.

While the nuclear deal has yet to translate into major economic and financial benefits for Iran, any requests for extra resources to support foreign allies will also have to compete with the Iranian government's many other – domestic – priorities.

Moreover, the potential long-term effects of the nuclear deal on the funding of Iran's allies in Iraq will depend on many other factors, including the domestic situation in Iraq and Iran and developments in Syria. It is certain, however, that Iran will continue to pursue its strategic economic interests in Iraq.

Author: Beatrix Immenkamp.

ESO: Background information: The rise of Iran as a regional power: Shia empowerment and its limits http://www.europeansources.info/record/the-rise-of-iran-as-a-regional-power-shia-empowerment-and-its-limits/

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