Iran’s parliament speaker Ghalibaf to visit Iraq for talks

Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, is set to visit Iraq in an effort to discuss regional developments and bolster strategic cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad. This high-level parliamentary delegation will travel to the Iraqi capital on Wednesday, as announced by Iran's Fars news agency. Ghalibaf aims to address current regional issues, foster stronger ties between the two countries, and explore potential solutions to promote stability and security throughout the Middle East.

The visit comes amidst mounting pressure on Iraq from Washington to disarm powerful Iran-backed armed factions. These factions have gained significant political and financial influence in Iraq, leading Baghdad to set a deadline of September 30 for these groups to disarm. This deadline aligns with the termination date of the US-led anti-jihadist coalition mission in Iraq.

Ghalibaf's trip also coincides with a recent incident that has strained relations between Iraq and Iran. A drone attack targeted the office of Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region's prime minister, prompting initial accusations from Kurdish authorities that Tehran was behind the attack. However, Iran has denied involvement, attributing the incident to a tactic aimed at undermining bilateral relations.

Tehran's ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammad Kazem al-Sadeq, stated that Ghalibaf's visit was planned in advance and will last for two days.