Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is embarking on a crucial journey to Baghdad amidst escalating tensions in the region. His visit, part of a larger regional diplomacy tour, aims to engage in ongoing diplomatic consultations with Iraq and other countries.
Araghchi is set to meet with Iraqi officials to discuss bilateral relations and recent regional developments. Additionally, he plans to engage leaders of Iran-aligned groups in Iraq to address pressing regional issues like the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.
This visit follows Araghchi’s recent visits to Lebanon, Syria, and Saudi Arabia, where he emphasized the importance of de-escalation and cautioned against external interference, particularly from the US. Reports suggest he also warned Arab countries against aiding Israel in attacks against Iran.
The significance of Araghchi’s visit to Iraq lies in the context of Iran’s past missile strikes in the region and the presence of Iranian-aligned armed groups. The aim is to maintain stability and prevent further escalation amidst heightened tensions.
In a related development, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf flew his aircraft to Lebanon in a show of solidarity, landing in Beirut amid ongoing hostilities in the region.