Anglo-Iraqi Treaty

The Anglo-Iraqi Treaty of 1922 was an agreement between Great Britain and Iraq that established a framework for their relationship following World War I. While it aimed to create an Arab government under British mandate, it was met with opposition from Iraqi nationalists who desired full independence.

The treaty, signed in October 1922, largely mirrored the provisions of the mandate, with Britain offering advice on foreign and domestic affairs, including military, judicial, and financial matters. In return, Iraq agreed to respect religious freedom, the rights of foreigners, and to cooperate with the League of Nations. Britain committed to preparing Iraq for membership in the League as soon as possible.

Despite efforts to revise the treaty in 1923 to shorten the period of British tutelage, the Iraqi Constituent Assembly demanded complete independence. The treaty was ultimately ratified in June 1924, after Britain warned that non-approval would lead to the matter being referred to the League of Nations. This treaty laid the groundwork for Iraq's eventual independence in 1932.