Iraq reaffirms security pact in Iran talks
Shafaq News – Tehran (Updated on Oct.22 at 12:37)
Iraq’s National Security Adviser Qassem al-Araji discussed bilateral relations and the implementation of the joint security agreement with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran on Tuesday.
According to a statement from al-Araji’s office, the talks focused on expanding cooperation between Baghdad and Tehran, particularly in the economic field. Al-Araji reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to the 2023 border security pact, along with its support for the Gaza ceasefire and efforts to reduce regional tensions through dialogue and diplomacy.
Al-Araji also held a separate meeting with Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Maj. Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi and senior military officials to discuss border control, security coordination, the presence of Iranian Kurdish opposition groups in the Kurdistan Region, and progress made by the joint security committee overseeing the pact.
According to a statement from Iran’s General Staff, Mousavi cautioned that the United States seeks to dominate Iraqi airspace and territory, claiming that Washington’s intentions became evident following recent Israeli and American attacks on Iran. He emphasized the need for full implementation of the security agreement between both countries.
Earlier, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Ground Forces Commander Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour warned that Iran would deliver a stronger response to any future attack during his own meeting with al-Araji, saying US and Israeli defense systems had “failed” to intercept Iranian missiles during the June confrontation.
The 12-day conflict began after Israeli strikes on Tehran triggered Iranian missile and drone retaliation. The United States later joined with airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites before President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire on June 24.
Al-Araji’s delegation also met Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Supreme National Security Council head Ali Larijani to discuss the security pact and enhance cooperation on counterterrorism, trade, and border management.
Read more: Iraqi–Iranian Security MoU rekindles a decade of border deals—and old controversies
