December 12, 2012

Iraq in Hindsight: Views on the U.S. Withdrawal

In Iraq in Hindsight: Views on the U.S. Withdrawal, Emma Sky offers a pointed critique of U.S. policy over the last decade, arguing that valuable lessons can be learned from the country's "American era" now that U.S. forces have withdrawn. A senior fellow at the Jackson Institute at Yale and a political advisor in Iraq to General Raymond Odierno from 2007 to 2010, Sky examines these lessons learned and urges U.S. policymakers to set realistic goals for future intervention. America’s experience in Iraq, she argues, should teach American leaders that above all, having a clear strategy, working to reach a political settlement and building long-term relationships with foreign leaders is critical. Sky examines these lessons by recounting her own experience in Iraq and asks, "could the United States have left Iraq a better state?"

Read the full commentary.

Download PDF

  • Commentary
    • The National Interest
    • May 29, 2025
    How to Kick-start Syria’s Reconstruction

    Given that there are so many stakeholders interested in Syria’s future, it’s unlikely that all countries will agree on the best way to support its transition, but they don’t n...

    By Delaney Soliday & Kate Johnston

  • Commentary
    • 1001 Iraqi Thoughts
    • May 27, 2025
    Arab League Summit in Iraq Falls Short

    There are many who have argued about the insignificance of the Arab League altogether, but from an Iraqi perspective, taking on the responsibility to host it also involves tak...

    By Hamzeh Hadad

  • Video
    • May 16, 2025
    Ziemba: U.S. Has To Be Ready To Accept Mideast Investments

    US President Donald Trump has secured $200 billion in deals during a visit to the United Arab Emirates, according to the White House, as he wraps up his visit to the Middle Ea...

    By Rachel Ziemba

  • Video
    • May 15, 2025
    Trump Inks $600 Bn Deal In Saudi Arabia | Musk, Blackrock CEO Flank Trump In Gulf Visit

    In today's episode of India Global, U.S. President Donald Trump secured a $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to invest in the United States. NDTV's Gaurie Dw...

    By Daniel Silverberg

View All Reports View All Articles & Multimedia