The thesis provides a look into the intricate relationship between the Sunni tribes of Iraq, primarily in the al-Anbar province, and the U.S.-led Coalition as well as with Al-Qaeda in Iraq, during...Show moreThe thesis provides a look into the intricate relationship between the Sunni tribes of Iraq, primarily in the al-Anbar province, and the U.S.-led Coalition as well as with Al-Qaeda in Iraq, during the U.S. invasion between 2003 and 2009. It paints a picture of the tribal consolidation that occurred during this time, between the various tribes and tribal affiliations, as a direct result of the uncertainty and lack of security in Iraq during this period, and in particular the uncertain future of Sunnis in the predominantly Shi'a country. The thesis provides information about the incentive-based relationship between the Sunni tribes and the various actors in the conflict, and presents an argument that this short-term cooperation hampered any future attempts for cooperation between the Iraqi government and the Sunnis. It also argues that this type of cooperation resulted in the division of the country within its sectarian and religious lines.Show less
