Iraq Steps Down to Help Ease US-Iran Tensions Through Mediation
Iraq is intensifying diplomatic efforts to help ease rising tensions between the US and Iran, positioning itself as a mediator to prevent potential military confrontation and prevent wider regional instability.
Baghdad continues to dialogue with Washington and Tehran "to keep the region away from the shadow of war," Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Hisham Al-Alawi was quoted as saying by local media Shafaq News in its report, which was reported by ANTARA from Anadolu, Friday, January 30.
Al-Alawi said Iraq plays an important role because of its strong ties with the US and Iran, allowing Iraq to act as a communication channel at a time of heightened international concern over a possible escalation.
He noted that Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein visited Tehran about two weeks ago, where he met with Iranian officials and conveyed Baghdad's interest in easing military tensions and resolving disputes between Washington and Tehran through diplomatic channels.
Al-Alawi warned any escalation would not be limited to Iraq but would have an impact on the entire region, pointing to the consequences of the June conflict between Israel and Iran as a real example of the risks involved.
"Iraq has a national interest to cooperate with neighboring countries and the United States to promote regional stability and address nuclear issues and other issues through diplomacy," he said.
He added that Baghdad is seeking to take advantage of its good relations with the US and Iran to help stabilize the region, noting that Iraq and other countries have previously contributed to preventing military attacks against Iran.
The statement comes amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington in recent weeks, following US President Donald Trump's statement that a "large fleet" was moving towards Iran, along with his call for Tehran to "come to the negotiating table" for negotiations.
Iranian officials have warned any US attack would trigger a "swift and comprehensive" response, while reiterating Tehran remains open to talks only on what it describes as "fair, balanced and non-coercive terms."