Africa’s Evolving Role In A New International Order
Courted by China and Russia, and dissatisfied with America’s attentions, the continent awaits clarity from Washington.
October 7, 2026
In this episode of Today's Battlegrounds, H.R. McMaster and Haider al Abadi discuss the future of US–Iraq relations as the new Prime Minister al-Zaidi and his government endeavor to strengthen Iraqi sovereignty, fight corruption, improve security, recover from a regional war, and diversify its economy.
Former Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi reflects on Iraq's partnership with the United States in the fight against al-Qaeda and ISIS, the challenges of balancing relations with regional powers, and the need to strengthen state institutions while preserving Iraqi independence. He discusses political reform, the integration of armed groups into the state, regional economic cooperation, and the importance of democratic governance as foundations for Iraq's long-term stability and prosperity.
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Peru: Politics, Power, And The Challenge Of Governing
H.R. McMaster and Francisco Sagasti discuss the lessons of Sagasti's presidency, political and economic trends in Latin America, and his new book, Knowledge is Power, which explores the life and legacy of Sir Francis Bacon.
October 7, 2026