Iraq Study Group

About the Iraq Study Group

The Iraq Study Group made a forward-looking, independent assessment of the current and prospective situation on the ground in Iraq and how it affects the surrounding region as well as U.S. interests.

The study group examined four broad topics:

• the strategic environment in and around Iraq;
• the security of Iraq and key challenges to enhancing security within the country;
• political developments within Iraq following the elections and formation of the new government;
• and the economy and reconstruction.

The effort was undertaken at the urging of several members of Congress with agreement of the White House. A final report was released to Congress, the White House, and the public on December 6, 2006.

Members and Participating Organizations

Leadership of the group was provided by two distinguished co-chairs: James A. Baker, III, former secretary of state and honorary chairman of the Baker Institute, and Lee H. Hamilton, former congressman and director of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

The balance of the bipartisan group was comprised of Americans who have distinguished themselves in service to their nation: Robert M. Gates, Vernon E. Jordan, Jr., Edwin Meese III, Sandra Day O'Connor, Leon E. Panetta, William J. Perry, Charles S. Robb, and Alan K. Simpson.

The members of the study group consulted with members of Congress and others, including four working groups of experts and a group of retired military officers. The four working groups were comprised of experts from private industry and leading policy and academic institutions.

More Information

Questions about the ISG or its report should be directed to: