See my new @WashInstitute piece on the Kadhimi visit to DC, what was learned by both sides, the psychology of the Iraqi delegation, and the understated importance of the strategic dialogue process - thread to follow washingtoninstitute.org/fikraforum/vie…
The piece begins by underlining the rather imposing list of challenges faced by Iraq’s cabinet and soldiers 
In the week before the Kadhimi Ream dame, it was worth underlining to those Kadhimi might might (but who did not know him or his team) exactly how much these men and women were risking as they sought to make whatever changes they can
Kadhimi and his soldiers and advisors are working in the real world, not in a safe office thousands of miles from danger, a factor than can be overlooked by armchair ultrahawks. Luckily, real policy makers and legislators got the message.
Another overlooked factor is how small and overloaded the Kadhimi team are: they need to grow, or they will crack one by one. They should be encouraged to open the team up, which on balance is worth it.
It should be obvious but needs stating that the Kadhimi govt cannot meet Iraqi or int’l expectations if it is not secure. How brave would USG be if militias could shoulder their way into the Oval Office?
One message sent by the Iraqis loud and clear was that the best defense for the govt is political: the most shocking aspect of June 25 was not that militias could physically penetrate govt defenses but rather the silence that followed the govt’s calls for help
The trip was classic US-Iraq relations, with Iraq not clearly asking for things and expecting Washington to know what to offer. This is exactly why the boring-sounding Strategic Dialogue could end being quite impactful.
Whoever runs the US or Iraq in 2022, this dialogue can perhaps keep a special level of partnership going between this odd couple - that kind of institutional bridge is much needed and quickly. This underlines that our future engagement with Iraq is not a forever war.
Finally, it is good that the US recognized the central importance of good leadership in Iraq, and the importance of showing friendship to a friend under huge pressure and facing huge risk. Looking forward to the JCCs and the next phase.
