understanding of the reciprocal relationships between tribes in the western region of Anbar on one hand and how these relationships impact the security landscape in the region on the other. The study concludes that the conflict in Western Anbar may cause a shift in the international coalition against the Islamic State to become an arena of contention between the United States and Iran. The United States, which has been present in Western Anbar since the invasion of Iraq in 2003, will continue to monitor Iranian presence in the region. The United States may not overlook the possibility of renewing cooperation with the tribes of Western Anbar, which have historically been a crucial frontline, as seen during the Awakening Movements in 2006. To survive, the tribes will either need to maintain a balanced approach towards both parties, the American and the Iranian, or align themselves with one of the two camps. Keywords: Tribe, Iraq, Security, the International Coalition, Iran, ISIS.
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