Esmail Qaani, Iran’s Quds Force Commander, visited Baghdad for high-level talks focusing on Iraq’s neutrality in regional conflicts, particularly Syria, and the implications of U.S. actions against the Houthis in Yemen. The discussions stressed security under state authority and addressed U.S. warnings against armed factions. Qaani affirmed Iran’s support for Iraq against Israeli threats while urging a balanced stance in regional matters.
Esmail Qaani, the commander of Iran’s Quds Force, conducted an unannounced visit to Baghdad for significant discussions with notable Iraqi political and military figures, according to a senior source for Shafaq News. His meetings included leaders from the Coordination Framework, commanders from the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), and Iran’s ambassador to Iraq. The primary topics of discussion centered on Iraq’s neutrality in regional disputes, particularly regarding the Syrian conflict, and the necessity of maintaining security control within the bounds of state authority.
Additionally, Qaani and the leaders addressed the implications of recent U.S. airstrikes on the Houthis in Yemen, along with broader regional dynamics. Qaani emphasized Tehran’s position, urging Iraq to uphold a neutral stance and refrain from aligning with any specific party. He also provided a stern warning that Iran would not overlook any Israeli attacks on Iraq, reaffirming support for any military response from the Iraqi government or collaborating factions.
Qaani’s visit occurs against a backdrop of increasing U.S. pressure on Iraq. Recent communications from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani included explicit warnings. Hegseth stated that any interference from Iraqi armed groups in U.S. operations against the Houthis would provoke a military response within Iraq.
In conclusion, Esmail Qaani’s visit to Baghdad highlights Iran’s intent to assert influence over Iraq amid escalating regional tensions. His discussions with Iraqi leaders prioritized maintaining Iraq’s neutrality and security. Concurrently, U.S. officials have conveyed serious warnings regarding the activities of armed factions, indicating a fragile balance in regional power dynamics that Iraq must navigate cautiously.
Original Source: shafaq.com
