Abstract. The withdrawal of American troops from Iraq marks the beginning of a new stage in the history of that country. Iraq once again becomes a sovereign independent state. From now on, the huge task of ensuring security and putting an end to the terrible internal strife must be entrusted to the local authority. It is crucial to find a compromise solution to the Sunni-Shiite conflict. To achieve this end, the central power has to be really inclusive, giving the Sunnis their legitimate place in governing the country. The worst scenario would be the establishment of a Shiite-dominated regime that is prone to neglect the grievances of the Sunni population. The rights of the Kurdish minority, too, have to be safeguarded unless the state falls apart. Judging by their past behavior, however, it is hard to believe in the goodwill and adequate judgment of Iraqi politicians. The author concludes that the situation may well get worse before it starts to better off.