Iran’s Quds Force Commander Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad for high-level talks focused on Iraq’s neutrality in regional conflicts, particularly concerning Syria, and emphasized state authority over security control. Discussions also included US airstrikes in Yemen and Israel’s military actions. Qaani warned of Iran’s support for Iraq in the event of Israeli aggression. Concurrently, US officials urged the disarmament of armed factions in Iraq amid rising tensions.
Esmail Qaani, the Commander of Iran’s Quds Force, conducted an unannounced visit to Baghdad for high-level discussions with Iraqi political and military leaders, as reported by Shafaq News. The meetings included representatives from the Coordination Framework, commanders from armed factions, and the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), along with Iran’s ambassador to Iraq. They primarily focused on Iraq’s neutrality in regional conflicts, notably concerning Syria, and emphasized the importance of maintaining state authority over security control.
Discussions during this visit also addressed the consequences of recent United States airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthis (Ansarallah) and broader regional developments. Qaani was noted to have stressed Tehran’s position, advising Iraq to sustain its impartial stance and refrain from siding with any particular party. Furthermore, he issued a warning: “Iran would not remain silent if Iraq were targeted by Israeli strikes,” and expressed support for “any response” that might be initiated by the Iraqi government or allied factions.
This diplomatic engagement from Qaani occurs alongside rising US pressure on Iraq. Sources indicated that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently communicated with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, delivering a stark warning about the potential repercussions of Iraqi armed factions intervening in US operations targeting the Houthis in Yemen. Hegseth advised al-Sudani to expedite efforts to disarm these factions, aligning with key objectives set forth by the Trump administration.
This escalating tension comes as Israel resumes airstrikes on Gaza after a fragile ceasefire had lapsed and coincides with US operations against Houthi targets in Yemen, aimed at ensuring maritime navigation security. As new Iraqi armed factions emerge, pledging “jihad” to protect Iraq and Yemen from US military incursions, the situation remains volatile and complex.
In conclusion, Esmail Qaani’s discreet visit to Baghdad underscores the intricate dynamics of regional politics involving Iraq, Iran, and the United States. The discussions highlighted Iraq’s desired neutrality amid rising tensions due to external military actions in the region. With heightened warnings from US officials and the emergence of new armed factions, the stability of Iraq continues to face significant challenges.
Original Source: shafaq.com
