The Rumi Forum presented “Iraq’s Future and U.S. Strategic Interests: Are they Colliding?” with Dr. Kamal Beyoghlow, Professor of U.S Strategy, the Middle East & N. Africa, and Islamic Studies at the National War College.
The evolution of terrorism and insurgency in Iraq since the U.S.-led invasion in 2003 has forced the United States to reach a crossroad. The lack of a sound U.S. strategic vision continues to hamper U.S. efforts to bring about a stable and secure Iraq, and to achieve strategic and operational objectives. Where does the United States go from here? What are America’s strategic and operational options? How politically stable is Iraq today? What are the implications for Iraq of a U.S. military withdrawal? The presentation will address a series of flashpoints and their regional and international implications. It will also examine prospects for national reconciliation between Sunnis, Christians, Shias, and Kurds and take up the issue of Iraqi sovereignty and US hegemony.
Dr. Beyoghlow is professor of U.S strategy, the Middle East & N. Africa, and Islamic Studies at the National War College. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Government at American University. He received his B.A. degree from San Diego State University, his M.A. degree from Tufts University in cooperation with the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and his PhD from the University of California at Berkeley. Dr. Beyoghlow has served in a variety of U.S. Government and academic positions including the State Department. His current research focuses on insurgency and counterinsurgency, the culture of suicide terrorism, and U.S. foreign policy.
Among his publications is The Strategic Implications of Biological and Chemical Weapons on Gulf Security.