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This article traces the changes in US foreign policy towards Iraq under the Obama presidency. Although Obama adopted a less aggressive and more cautious approach to Iraq than that of George W. Bush, the long-term interests and goals of the United States in Iraq remained much the same. In the ongoing struggle between the central government in Baghdad and the Kurds the United States is caught in the middle while trying to appease both sides. In addition, the involvement of the U.S. petroleum industry in Iraq is of particular importance to the United States and this long-term interest remains the same whether a Republican or Democrat is in the White House. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]