Iraq's Political Deadlock Amidst US-Iran Tug-of-War

Iraq is stuck in a political deadlock as it races to choose a prime minister, caught between US and Iranian influence. Both countries are pressuring Baghdad to pick a leader that serves their interests, with Iran's Quds Force commander visiting and the US reportedly withholding oil revenue. Meanwhile, Iran's recent conflict added another burden as Iraq became the only country attacked by both Tehran-backed militias and American warplanes. The country faces a delicate balancing act to avoid further conflict. https://www.thenationalnews.com/podcasts/beyond-the-headlines/2026/04/24/can-iraq-shake-off-the-grip-of-foreign-influence/