Sweden/Iraq

The history of Swedish-Iraqi international relations dates back to the early 20th century when Sweden recognised the newly established Kingdom of Iraq in 1932. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were officially established, leading to the opening of embassies in each other's capitals, with the a royal visit from Sweden following in 1934.

During the mid-20th century, economic ties between Sweden and Iraq began to grow. Swedish companies, especially in the engineering and construction sectors, started to invest in Iraq and take part in infrastructure projects. This period saw increased trade relations and collaboration in various industries.

In the 1970s, Swedish-Iraqi relations continued to strengthen, with Sweden providing economic assistance and development aid to Iraq. However, the dynamics changed dramatically with the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq War in 1980. Sweden, along with other European countries, imposed an arms embargo on Iraq, severing military ties.

The Gulf War in 1990-1991 further strained relations between Sweden and Iraq. Following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, Sweden supported the international coalition against Iraq and actively participated in the UN-sanctioned military action to liberate Kuwait with a small force.

In July 2023, diplomatic relations between Sweden and Iraq were effectively severed following several protests in Sweden where protestors burned copies of the Quran, Islam’s holy book, outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm, actions which were granted a permit for by the Swedish police. In response, the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani ordered the withdrawal of Iraqi charge d’affaires in Stockholm and expelled the Swedish ambassador to Iraq. In the meantime, counter-protestors in Iraq stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad.