Continuity and change in the Sadr Movement in Iraqi political life and its relations with Iran

This study examines the factionalization within the Shia Alliance in Iraqi politics, especially the tensions between the Sadr Movement led by Muqtada al-Sadr and Iran, from a historical and contemporary perspective. Although there are various studies on the Sadr Movement in the Turkish literature, comprehensive academic research on the movement's relationship with Iran is limited. It aims to deeply examine the Sadr Movement's political discourses, its attitude towards Iran and its role in Iraqi politics. The Sadr Movement, which has an important place in Iraq's Shia society, emphasizes protecting Iraq's national identity and independence against Iran's increasing regional influence. The movement's discourses emphasizing Iraq's independence and political sovereignty directly question Iran's influence over Iraq. The first section of the study examines the historical roots of the Shia Axis in Iraq and the role Iran played in the formation of this alliance. Then, by analyzing the Sadrist Movement's political goals, public discourses and its quest to build an independent Shia leadership from Iran, it reveals the fundamental elements of the Sadrist-Iran conflict. It also emphasizes that it can be an obstacle to Iran's regional strategic goals and change the balance of power in the region. This thesis makes an important contribution to understanding the complex dynamics in Iraqi politics. In particular, it helps us better understand the effects of the tensions between the Sadrist Movement and Iran on Iraq's political future and regional stability.