Iran regional diplomatic engagements

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has engaged in a series of diplomatic activities focused on regional security and cooperation. During a visit to Baghdad, Ghalibaf met with Iraqi officials to discuss economic growth, border stability, and oil exports. However, the visit was complicated by a public dispute with Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi regarding the naming of the body of water between the two nations, with Ghalibaf using the term ‘Persian Gulf’ and al-Halbusi countering with ‘Arabian Gulf.’

Following the Iraqi visit, Ghalibaf met with Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Tehran. The discussions centered on regional stability and the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Ghalibaf criticized United States policies, alleging that breaches of previous agreements hinder regional trust and jeopardize the security of allies. He suggested that such actions may lead to the development of a more independent local regional order.

In a subsequent meeting in Tehran, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met with Ghalibaf to discuss diplomatic developments. Ghalibaf reiterated his criticism of the United States, alleging that the Trump administration makes decisions based on ‘incorrect information’ that threatens both regional security and American interests. He urged the U.S. to fulfill its obligations under the Islamabad Memorandum and dismissed efforts to implement an economic blockade of Iran as ‘futile.’

Al Thani expressed support for a recent agreement between Iran and Oman concerning maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that current diplomatic trends could help return stability to the region. He emphasized Qatar’s commitment to seeking solutions for regional peace.