Israel’s engagement in Iraq reflects a multifaceted strategy of fostering alliances with marginalized groups, countering adversarial regimes, and promoting regional stability. This article delves into Israel’s historical ties, economic partnerships, and military collaborations in Iraq, with a focus on its alignment with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and its broader implications for the region.

Historical Context: A Foundation of Alliances

Kurdish Ties: Since the 1960s, Israel has cultivated a strategic alliance with Kurdish leaders like Mulla Mustafa Barzani. This relationship included military training, advanced weaponry, and humanitarian aid, rooted in shared objectives of countering hostile Arab regimes.

Jewish Legacy in Iraq: Once home to a thriving Jewish community, Iraq's Jewish population dwindled due to persecution and emigration, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with Israel’s cultural and political narratives.

Economic Partnerships: Oil and Infrastructure

Oil Trade: Reports indicate that up to 70% of Israel’s oil imports come from Kurdistan, bypassing Baghdad’s control. These transactions provide critical revenue to the KRG while challenging Iraq’s federal economic unity.

Infrastructure Investments: Israeli firms have supported projects like Erbil’s airport, showcasing economic collaboration that underscores mutual benefits and strategic interests.

Military Collaboration

Training and Support: From the 1960s to post-2003, Israel has provided military assistance to Kurdish forces, including training in guerrilla warfare and logistical support during the ISIS offensive.

Regional Tensions: These ties have heightened tensions with Iran and Turkey, which view Israeli-Kurdish collaboration as a threat to their regional influence.

Humanitarian Outreach

Supporting Marginalized Groups: Through NGOs like IsraAID, Israel has extended aid to Yazidis and Christians affected by ISIS atrocities, fostering goodwill among these communities.

Public Diplomacy: Efforts like cultural exchanges and humanitarian missions aim to counter anti-Israel narratives, though deep-seated opposition remains prevalent.

Challenges to Normalization

Baghdad’s Stance: Iraq’s federal government remains firmly opposed to normalization with Israel, driven by solidarity with Palestine and alignment with Iran.

Emerging Voices: Liberal factions like the October 25 Movement advocate for normalization, citing potential benefits for modernization and sovereignty. However, these efforts face significant resistance from entrenched political and religious factions.

Geopolitical Implications

Countering Iran: Israel’s influence in Iraq aligns with its broader strategy to undermine Iranian networks. This has led to increased Iranian aggression, including missile strikes on alleged Israeli operations in Kurdistan.

Promoting Regional Alliances: Israel’s outreach to the KRG and Arab opposition groups underscores its commitment to fostering alliances with marginalized communities and promoting normalization across the Middle East.

Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Landscape

Israel’s influence in Iraq illustrates the intricate interplay of historical ties, economic interests, and geopolitical strategies. While its relationship with the KRG advances mutual objectives, broader normalization with Iraq remains constrained by political and ideological barriers. Future engagements will require careful navigation of regional dynamics and internal divisions to foster stability and cooperation.