Dr. Mohammed Kadhim Al-Ma’ini, a researcher and faculty member at the Center for Strategic and International Studies at the University of Baghdad, recently served on the examination committee for a master’s thesis defense at the Iraqi War College. The thesis, presented by Major General Aqeel Muslim, was titled “Iraq’s National Security: Transitioning from Counterterrorism to Countering Violent Extremism.”
The study explores Iraq’s evolving approach to national security, emphasizing a strategic shift from traditional counterterrorism operations to a broader, more integrated effort to address violent extremism. The thesis argues that tackling violent extremism requires both soft and hard power tools, and positions this shift as a critical step in disrupting the root causes of terrorism. The researcher underscores the idea that extremism, in all its forms, is a primary driver of violence and must be addressed through comprehensive intellectual and strategic frameworks.
The examination committee included the following members:
- Dr. Haider Ali Hussein – Chair (College of Political Science, Al-Mustansiriya University)
- Prof. Dr. Mohammed Kadhim Al-Ma’ini – Member (Center for Strategic and International Studies, University of Baghdad)
- Aqeel Muslim Jassim – Member (War College, Department of Military Sciences)
- Dr. Nawar Jalil Hashem – Member and Faculty Advisor (College of Political Science, Al-Mustansiriya University)
Major General Muslim was awarded the distinction of “Excellent” for his thesis.
Dr. Al -Ma’ini is a frequent participant in graduate-level thesis defenses, both within the University of Baghdad and at other academic institutions, recognized for his strong academic credentials and depth of research expertise.
