BAGHDAD: Iraq is seeking to play a role as a bridge between Iran and the United States and help pave the way for an agreement that protects the interests and rights of countries across the region, Iraqi Prime Minister’s Security Adviser Qasim Al-Araji has said.
Speaking in a recent interview with Al Jazeera, Al-Araji said Iraq maintains good relations with both Tehran and Washington.
He said Baghdad wants to use those relations to facilitate dialogue between the two countries and help reduce tensions.
Iraq Wants Broader Iran-US Dialogue
Al-Araji said Iraq hopes talks between Iran and the United States can move forward.
However, he stressed that any future agreement should consider not only the interests of Tehran and Washington but also the rights and interests of the wider region.
“Iraq wants dialogue between Iran and the United States to move forward,” Al-Araji said, according to the interview.
He added that Baghdad wants an agreement that serves regional interests and helps strengthen stability.
Iraq Highlights Regional Security
The Iraqi security adviser also addressed concerns about armed groups operating from Iraqi territory.
According to Al-Araji, Iran has stressed the need to eliminate militant groups from Iraqi soil. He described the issue as an important part of regional security.
Baghdad’s position reflects the challenge it faces in balancing its relations with both Iran and the United States while trying to prevent regional conflicts from spilling into Iraq.
Baghdad Seeks a Diplomatic Role
Al-Araji’s comments come as tensions between Iran and the United States remain high and diplomatic efforts continue across the region.
Iraq’s geographic position and its relations with both Tehran and Washington give Baghdad an opportunity to support communication between the two sides.
For Iraq, however, any mediation effort would require careful diplomacy. The government would need to maintain its relationships with both countries while also addressing security concerns linked to armed groups operating inside its territory.
Al-Araji’s remarks indicate that Baghdad wants to use its diplomatic position to encourage dialogue and support a broader regional understanding.