Iran’s new president travels to neighboring Iraq on his first trip abroad
SUMMARY
Iran’s reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian embarked on his first international visit to Iraq, aiming to fortify Tehran’s long-standing ties with Baghdad amidst rising regional tensions. Since the U.S.-led 2003 invasion, Iraq has served as a crucial ally for Iran, particularly given its political, economic, and religious importance. Pezeshkian’s visit focuses on security and economic cooperation, including projects like the Basra-Iran railroad link. The trip comes amid heightened tensions, with U.S. troops still stationed in Iraq and an explosion striking near Baghdad International Airport just before Pezeshkian’s arrival. Iran’s relationship with Iraq balances its backing of Shiite militias and its opposition to U.S. military presence, while also managing tensions from Iranian missile strikes in Iraq in recent years.
