Iraq

Definition

Iraq is a country in Western Asia, bordered by Turkey, Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria. It has a rich historical heritage, being home to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, and plays a significant role in contemporary geopolitics due to its strategic location and vast oil reserves. The country's political landscape is heavily influenced by sectarian divisions and the application of Sharia law, impacting both regional stability and international relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Iraq's population is predominantly Arab, with significant Kurdish and Turkmen minorities, leading to a complex ethnic and sectarian makeup.
2. Following the U.S.-led invasion in 2003, Iraq underwent significant political changes, including the establishment of a new democratic government amidst ongoing violence and instability.
3. The Iraqi government has faced challenges in implementing Sharia law within its legal system, which varies significantly between different regions and communities.
4. The presence of various militia groups in Iraq has exacerbated sectarian tensions and often undermines the central government's authority.
5. Iraq's oil reserves are among the largest in the world, making it a key player in global energy markets and influencing its foreign relations with major powers.

Review Questions

• How do sectarian divisions in Iraq influence the application of Sharia law within its legal framework?
  • Sectarian divisions in Iraq, particularly between Sunni and Shia Muslims, heavily influence how Sharia law is interpreted and applied across different regions. In areas where one sect is dominant, local governance may adopt stricter interpretations aligned with their beliefs. This fragmentation complicates the establishment of a unified legal system and often leads to varying degrees of justice and rights for individuals based on their sectarian identity.
• Evaluate the impact of Iraq's oil reserves on its international relations and regional stability.
  • Iraq's vast oil reserves play a crucial role in shaping its international relations and regional stability. Major global powers seek partnerships with Iraq to secure energy supplies, which can lead to increased foreign intervention. Additionally, the competition for control over oil resources can exacerbate internal conflicts among ethnic groups and militias, further destabilizing the country. Thus, while oil is an economic boon, it also serves as a source of tension both domestically and internationally.
• Assess how the aftermath of the 2003 invasion has reshaped Iraq's political landscape and its implications for regional stability.
  • The aftermath of the 2003 invasion transformed Iraq's political landscape by dismantling its former regime and leading to the establishment of a new democratic government. However, this transition has been marred by ongoing violence, power struggles among different sects, and the rise of extremist groups. These challenges have contributed to significant instability not just within Iraq but also across the broader region, as neighboring countries grapple with spillover effects such as refugee crises and sectarian tensions fueled by Iraq's internal conflicts.

Related terms

Sharia Law: A system of Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith that governs various aspects of life, including politics, criminal justice, and personal conduct.

Sectarianism: A form of conflict or discrimination that arises from divisions within a particular religious community, often seen in the Sunni-Shia divide in Iraq.

Kurdistan: An autonomous region in northern Iraq with a distinct ethnic identity and political governance, largely inhabited by the Kurdish people.