Iraqi delegation arrives in Riyadh for security talks with Saudi Arabia

An Iraqi security delegation has journeyed to Saudi Arabia in an effort to de-escalate tensions stemming from alleged drone attacks by Iran-backed militias, cross-border assaults, and to explore opportunities for enhanced security cooperation, according to Iraqi state media. This visit transpired roughly two weeks following US and Saudi airstrikes that claimed the lives of around 20 fighters from the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a coalition primarily comprising Iran-backed militias, and at least five Iranian military advisers; dozens more sustained injuries.

These retaliatory strikes followed a series of drone assaults launched from Iraqi territory, which Saudi officials attributed to Iran.

The Iraqi delegation, headed by Lt Gen Abdul Amir Al Shammari, the commander-in-chief's office director, also includes Hamid Al Shatri, the head of the Iraqi National Intelligence Service, Lt Gen Muhanad Al Asadi, the air defence commander, and Lt Gen Zaid Hawshi, the counter-terrorism service head. The delegation aims to discuss several security matters of mutual concern with the Saudi side, encompassing the drone file, as well as methods to bolster security coordination and collaboration between the two nations.

Tensions escalated recently after Iran-backed militias in Iraq were accused by Saudi Arabia of conducting drone attacks targeting the kingdom's energy infrastructure, leading to joint US-Saudi air strikes in response. Since the initiation of the Iran war in late February, factions aligned with Tehran have alleged drone attacks against US forces in Iraq and the broader region, including Saudi Arabia, to display solidarity with Iran.

However, they have denied perpetrating the attacks on Saudi energy facilities. The July 29 strikes elicited strong condemnation from the Iraqi government and postponed a planned Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi visit to Riyadh, scheduled for the following day.

Saudi Arabia's intelligence chief, Khalid bin Ali Al Humaidan, conducted a visit to Baghdad last week, aimed at mitigating the fallout and preserving security channels. He reaffirmed the Iraqi Prime Minister's invitation to Riyadh. Saudi Arabia has consistently cautioned that attacks originating from Iraqi soil will not be tolerated, while Iraqi officials have asserted their commitment to preventing armed groups from thrusting the country into a regional conflict.

A government official revealed to The National that Thursday's discussions would focus on mechanisms to curb cross-border drone activity, enhance air defence coordination, and expand intelligence sharing between the two neighboring nations. The presence of the intelligence chief and counter-terrorism chief on the Iraqi delegation underscores Iraq's desire to address both militia activity and broader border threats.

The visit also serves to reset the diplomatic course following the delay of Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi's visit to Riyadh, which is expected to occur once security understandings are established. With the US-led coalition scheduled to reduce its presence in Iraq by September 30, both Baghdad and Riyadh share an interest in stabilizing the border and averting Iraq from becoming a launching point for regional attacks.

The outcome of this week's meeting will likely determine whether relations can progress beyond the current crisis or if drone attacks and retaliatory strikes continue to characterize them.