Opportunity and Uncertainty in the Middle East: Next Steps for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

February 2026

Past Event

Opportunity and Uncertainty in the Middle East: Next Steps for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Past Event

Invite Only

February 12, 2026

Rendering of Erbil, capital of the Kurdistan region of Iraq. (Courtesy of Kurdistan Chronicle)

February 2026

Past Event

Speakers:

Rebar Ahmed

Interior Minister, Kurdistan Regional Government

For decades the United States’ partnership with the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) has been a crucial component of American policy in the Middle East. Today the Middle East holds unprecedented economic opportunities for the US and its regional allies. But the region is also wracked by potential conflicts—especially tensions between the United States and Iran and a fragile truce in eastern Syria. Against this uncertain backdrop, Iraqis are immersed in a complicated, high-stakes government formation process in both Baghdad and Erbil. How will these dynamics shape the future of the US-KRI partnership? What are the most significant opportunities for this partnership? And what do policymakers need to do to mitigate risks to US-KRI mutual interests?

Join Hudson for a deep dive into these topics with Interior Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government His Excellency Rebar Ahmed, one of the region’s most experienced and respected statesmen. Senior Fellow Joel Rayburn will host Minister Ahmed for a fireside chat followed by audience Q&A.

Event Audio

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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