Iran’s Security Chief Advocates for Robust, Concrete Relations with Iraq Amid Global Shifts
Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has advocated for the enhancement of concrete bilateral relations and extensive cooperation with neighboring Iraq, citing the evolving global developments as an impetus for such a move.
Larijani issued the appeal in a Saturday meeting with the prominent Iraqi Shia cleric and leader of the National Wisdom Movement, Seyyed Ammar Hakim, who is currently on an official visit to Tehran.
Iran’s chief security official emphasized that, given the present circumstances, collaboration between Iran and Iraq needs to evolve into a more concrete and practical form.
Larijani depicted Iraq as a formidable and amicable nation within the region, highlighting the Tehran-Baghdad collaboration as strategic in nature.
Hakim asserted that the 12-day Israeli military offensive against Iran unexpectedly enhanced the Islamic Republic’s influence in West Asia, contrary to the Zionist entity’s expectations. He noted that Iran’s dominant role received commendation from Muslims.
The leader of Iraq stated that the recent activities of the Zionist regime in relation to the ‘Greater Israel’ concept underscore Iran’s previous characterization of Israel as a “cancerous tumor.” The statement suggests that Israel’s actions have heightened regional awareness and concern over its initiatives.
On June 13, Israeli forces initiated a contentious strike against Iran, resulting in the targeted killing of several high-ranking officials, nuclear experts, and civilians.
Iran swiftly responded in under 24 hours by unleashing a barrage of missiles and drones, subsequently conducting a series of retaliatory actions under the operation named True Promise III.
On June 22, the United States became involved in the conflict in support of Israel as its bombers targeted three Iranian nuclear facilities, an action that has been widely criticized as a clear breach of international law.
Iran has initiated a missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base, situated in Qatar, which is recognized as the most extensive US military installation in West Asia, citing self-defense as the motive behind the action.
The Israeli government, under significant pressure, agreed to a unilateral ceasefire on June 24.
Larijani and Hakim engaged in discussions on the most recent regional developments, the bilateral ties between Iran and Iraq, the security agreement between Baghdad and Tehran, and mutual collaboration aimed at bolstering regional stability and security.
