Iran’s Quds Force commander advised Iraqi political leaders to ease criticism of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani amidst spying allegations, seeking to maintain stability in the region while conflicts escalate in the Middle East. The move reflects Iran’s concerns about potential instability in Iraq, where Tehran holds significant influence through various Iran-backed armed groups and Shi’ite Muslim parties.
The Quds Force, the overseas branch of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps, intervened to prevent any weakening of Sudani, emphasizing the importance of stability in Iraq amid regional violence. The spying allegations against Sudani have stirred controversy in Iraq, with opponents allegedly using them to undermine him before next year’s parliamentary elections.
As Sudani navigates economic reconstruction and negotiations with US-led forces in Iraq, Iran aims to avoid further tensions in Iraq before the 2025 elections. Qaani’s intervention is not new, as he previously urged Iran-backed factions to cease attacks on US forces in Iraq.
The situation remains delicate, with Iraq’s judiciary investigating the spying allegations. As Iran strives to respond to regional challenges, maintaining political stability in Iraq is crucial for both countries.