Iran’s Reliability Questioned Amid Iraq’s Economic Stability ConcernsThe diplomatic and economic rapport between Baghdad and Tehran is facing renewed scrutiny following signs that Iran may be unable or unwilling to safeguard Iraq’s energy interests amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, as geopolitical pressures mount, the anticipated protections have failed to materialize, leaving Iraq exposed to the economic fallout of broader regional frictions. The current situation highlights the inherent risks of Iraq’s external energy dependencies, particularly when regional actors become preoccupied with their own security dilemmas. For policymakers in Baghdad, the episode underscores the necessity of diversifying regional security partnerships and reducing reliance on a single neighbor for the protection of its primary revenue stream. The incident has effectively shifted the narrative from one of collaborative regional security to one of strategic friction, leaving both nations to navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.