Iraq's regional security outreach

In late July 2026, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Zaydi travelled to Tehran and asked President Masoud Beheshti to guarantee the safe passage of Iraqi‑leased oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for Baghdad’s export earnings. The meeting referenced the 2023 security pact between the two countries and discussed broader strategic cooperation, including economic projects and joint efforts against ISIS.

A week later, the prime minister, identified as Ali Fadel Al‑Zeidi, chaired an emergency security meeting in Baghdad. He pledged to prevent any threats emanating from Iraqi territory toward neighboring states, ordered the formation of a joint security committee, and called for deterrent mechanisms to stop repeat incidents. The shift moves from seeking external guarantees to strengthening internal security controls and regional stability.

Together, the snapshots illustrate Iraq’s dual approach of engaging Iran for maritime security while simultaneously tightening its own border and regional threat prevention measures.