Iran parliament speaker to visit Iraq for high-level talks

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is set to visit Iraq for talks with senior government officials, signalling continued coordination between Tehran and Baghdad at a critical diplomatic juncture.

The visit comes as Iraq navigates complex geopolitical pressures, with the United States pushing Baghdad to take stronger action against powerful Iran-backed armed factions operating within its borders. These militias have become increasingly influential in Iraqi politics and security affairs since the defeat of ISIS, complicating efforts by the Iraqi government to assert full control over its armed forces.

Ghalibaf's trip reflects Iran's strategic interest in maintaining its influence in Iraq, a neighbouring country with deep historical and religious ties. The Iranian delegation is expected to discuss bilateral relations, regional security matters, and coordination on issues of mutual concern.

The timing of the visit highlights the delicate balancing act Iraq must perform between managing its relationship with the United States—a key security partner—and respecting the significant role Iranian-backed groups have carved out in the country's political and military landscape.

Iran and Iraq, both Shiite-majority nations with a shared border, have strengthened ties considerably since the 2003 invasion of Iraq, despite their devastating eight-year war in the 1980s.