President Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent visit to Iraq has been lauded by Iranian officials for resulting in a strategic cooperation document and several economic agreements between the two nations. However, challenges such as opposition to Iranian influence in Iraq, economic stalemates, and shifting geopolitical dynamics with other regional powers and the US pose obstacles to deeper ties.
Although Iran’s trade with Iraq remains significant, Iraq is increasingly looking towards other partners like Turkey. The visit aimed to resolve Iraq’s $11 billion debt to Iran for gas and electricity imports, but no concrete solution was reached due to US sanctions. The strained relations between the two nations are further complicated by regional tensions and Iran’s domestic challenges.
Despite hopes for expanded trade and cooperation, Pezeshkian’s visit did not yield substantial agreements, showcasing the limitations faced by both countries in realizing their ambitions. While Iraq remains an important diplomatic gateway for Iran, its growing economic stability and diverse partnerships signal a shifting landscape in the region.
Omid Habibinia, a prominent Iranian journalist and political researcher, provides insights into the complex dynamics at play in the evolving relationship between Iran and Iraq.
Follow him on Twitter: @omidhabibinia