Dijlah Point - Strategic affairs expert Ali Al-Jubouri affirmed that Iraq constitutes a fundamental part of the ongoing preparations to reshape the political and security landscape in the Middle East amidst rapid strategic transformations. He explained that discussions of a new Middle East do not imply the absence of US influence, but rather a redefinition of its role and presence. Al-Jubouri stressed that Iraq cannot be isolated from regional understandings given its critical geographic and political position. He urged Baghdad to handle these changes with realism and flexibility to protect its national interests and sovereignty, warning against getting dragged into regional conflicts. He noted that Iraq's success depends on transforming its position from an arena of competition into an active participant in the new regional balances.