Over the past two decades, relations between Iran and Iraq have demonstrated a firm determination to expand comprehensive ties between the two nations and their governments. Shared religious, cultural, and historical bonds—particularly through religious observances such as Arbaeen and the exchange of pilgrims—have forged an unbreakable connection between the two countries. These interactions are in line with international norms and reflect the political maturity of both governments and their people. Extra-regional interference, even when presented under the guise of ensuring security, cannot erode this will for cooperation. Historical experience has shown that such interventions have more often led to domination and destruction than to stability or peace.

Enduring Security: Tehran–Baghdad Common Ground

Security, as the cornerstone of all social and political transformation, occupies a central place in Iran–Iraq relations. For nations facing terrorist threats and separatist movements, security naturally becomes one of the key pillars of bilateral engagement. Recent visits by senior security officials from both countries—including Ali Larijani’s trip to Baghdad and Qasem al-Araji’s meetings in Tehran—illustrate this ongoing cooperation. Rubio’s remarks about disarming resistance groups and focusing on Iran do not correspond to Iraq’s real security context. Two decades of U.S. presence have shown that Washington has repeatedly failed to provide genuine support for Iraq at critical junctures.

U.S. Threats and the Disarming of Iraq

The U.S. Secretary of State’s claims about the need to disarm resistance groups reveal, more than anything else, Washington’s intention to strip Iraq of its defenses. Groups such as the Hashd al-Shaabi, formed under the religious authority’s fatwa and instrumental in defeating terrorism, are now established components of Iraq’s legal security structure. American political and economic pressure to enforce this disarmament plan risks weakening Iraq’s defensive capabilities and prolonging the U.S. military presence—despite the Iraqi parliament’s 2019 resolution requiring U.S. forces to leave the country.

Zionist Puzzle: Reasserting Domination in the Region

Rubio’s accusations against Iraq’s resistance are part of a broader U.S.–Zionist scheme in the region. He has previously called for the disarmament of Hezbollah and Palestinian resistance groups in Gaza while simultaneously urging Arab states to normalize ties with Israel. Washington’s overarching goal is to construct a “new Middle East” centered on dismantling the defensive capacities of regional states and enforcing unilateral dominance.

Through deepening comprehensive relations, safeguarding political independence, and strengthening regional security, Iran and Iraq have managed to foster greater regional cohesion and awareness—thereby hindering Washington and Israel’s ambitions for renewed hegemony in the Middle East.