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What was the Coalition Provisional Authority’s role in Iraq after the invasion?

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Iraq War: U.S. soldiers — Iraq War U.S. soldiers in Sāmarrāʾ, Iraq.

Following the 2003 invasion of Iraq, the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) was established as the governing body tasked with administering the country. Composed of civil administrators appointed by the United States, the CPA assumed control of Iraq’s public sector and aimed to maintain security, restore basic services, and rebuild the nation's deteriorated infrastructure.123

Under the leadership of director L. Paul Bremer III, the CPA implemented several controversial policies, including the removal of Baʿth Party members from positions of authority and the disbanding of the Iraqi army. The authority also oversaw an Iraqi governing council with limited powers and postponed the establishment of a transitional government.12

The CPA’s tenure was marked by significant challenges, including an escalating insurgency, widespread violence, and economic mismanagement characterized by poor planning and waste. Efforts to implement rapid liberal reforms failed to stabilize the country or quell the growing resistance. The CPA officially handed over sovereignty to an Iraqi provisional government on June 28, 2004.132