Iran FM calls for stronger regional cooperation during Iraq visit

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Baghdad on Sunday and held meetings with top Iraqi leaders to discuss regional security, cooperation, and recent developments in the Middle East.

During his visit, Araghchi met Iraqi President Nezar Amidi, Parliament Speaker Hebat al-Halbousi, National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji, and Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi.

He congratulated Iraq’s new government and said Iran wants to strengthen cooperation with Iraq in political, economic, security, and cultural areas.

Araghchi also spoke about the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States, which ended the recent conflict. He said violations of the agreement by the US and Israel could threaten peace and stability in the region.

Iraqi President Amidi expressed support for Iran and said countries in the region should work together to maintain peace and stability.

In his meeting with Parliament Speaker Hebat al-Halbousi, Araghchi said Iran is ready to expand cooperation between the two countries, including closer ties between their parliaments. He also called for greater regional cooperation based on trust and shared security.

During talks with National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji, both sides discussed border security and efforts to fight terrorism. Al-Araji thanked Iran for its support in Iraq’s fight against Daesh and other terrorist groups.

Araghchi said Iran wants to work with Persian Gulf countries to create a regional security system without foreign military involvement. He also said Iran will continue working with Oman and other neighboring countries on the future management of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Islamabad MoU, signed on June 18, 2026, ended the conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The agreement included a ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

However, Araghchi said Israel has continued attacks in southern Lebanon, while the US has threatened further action against Iran. He stressed that the agreement can only succeed if all sides fully follow its terms.

Araghchi’s visit to Baghdad is part of Iran’s efforts to build stronger regional cooperation and promote security through dialogue instead of foreign military intervention.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi also said Iraq supports diplomacy and peaceful dialogue to end conflicts and bring stability to the region.