Iraqi Prime Minister to Visit Iran Amid Regional Tensions

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is set to embark on an official visit to Iran this Thursday, July 25, 2026. This trip marks his second international engagement shortly after a significant visit to the United States last week, occurring amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East.

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The Iraqi government is pushing an initiative based on diplomatic solutions, especially regarding the current situation.

Accompanied by a ministerial delegation, al-Zaidi's discussions in Tehran will primarily address the critical issue of gas supply. Iraq relies heavily on Iranian natural gas to power its electricity grid, a supply that has been intermittently disrupted by regional conflicts, severely impacting Iraq's power system. While Baghdad has sought to diversify its energy sources, it acknowledges a lack of immediate sufficient alternatives.

The Iraqi government, through its spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi, emphasized its commitment to diplomatic solutions for regional issues. Baghdad asserts its international standing, adherence to obligations, and pursuit of national interests, positioning itself as a nation that has recovered and remains neutral in the ongoing conflicts. This stance reflects Iraq's delicate balancing act between its key ally, the United States, and its neighbor, Iran.

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Baghdad enjoys international recognition, takes firm positions, respects its international obligations, and acts in accordance with its national and economic interests.

Al-Zaidi's visit to Iran follows a productive trip to Washington, where he secured 48 agreements and memorandums of understanding with American companies and strengthened bilateral relations. The prime minister also plans a subsequent official visit to Turkey later in July, underscoring Iraq's active engagement in regional diplomacy and economic partnerships.

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The Iraqi government is moving towards greater international openness based on the country's economic interests.