Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian Begins Strategic Visit to Iraq

Iran’s President Embarks on Strategic Visit to Iraq

Iran’s newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, arrived in Iraq on Wednesday, marking his inaugural foreign trip since assuming office in July. This visit underscores the importance that Iran places on its strategic alliance with Iraq, especially as regional tensions continue to escalate.

During his three-day visit, President Pezeshkian plans to tour several cities that highlight Iran’s political, religious, economic, and security interests in Iraq. Accompanying him is a delegation comprised of senior officials and influential businessmen, as reported by Iranian media outlets.

In televised remarks, President Pezeshkian expressed optimism about the outcomes of this trip, stating, “I believe this will be a fruitful journey for enhancing our economic, cultural, political, and security connections.” He further emphasized his hope to strengthen brotherly relations among all Islamic nations, starting with Iraq.

While in Baghdad, President Pezeshkian is scheduled to engage in discussions with key Iraqi leaders, including:

• Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani
• President Abdul Latif Rashid
• Other senior government officials

This visit coincides with Iraq’s movement toward policies that align with Iran’s long-term strategic goals, notably advancing negotiations regarding the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraqi soil. The relationship between Iran and the United States has been fraught with tension since the 1979 hostage crisis, leading to a prolonged absence of diplomatic relations. Iran has consistently viewed the presence of U.S. military personnel in Iraq as a potential threat to its national security.