In this article Michael Knights studies Trump s re-election likely ushers in a U.S. strategy to counter Iranian influence in Iraq, focusing on sanctions and financial intelligence over military intervention. His team will use economic tools to target Iran-backed militias and disrupt Iraq s oil sector. Iraq s leaders will face a transactional relationship with Washington, judged by their ties to Tehran, as the U.S. seeks to limit Iran s control while avoiding direct military action.