Pezeshkian Calls for Full Activation of Security Agreements with Iraq to Combat Terrorism and Smuggling
Peregraf
In a significant move to bolster cooperation between Iraq and Iran, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani signed 14 memorandums of understanding in Baghdad today. The agreements span various fields, focusing primarily on security and economic cooperation.
During a joint press conference, President Pezeshkian stressed the urgent need to full activate existing security agreements to deter "terrorists and enemies" undermining the region's stability. He emphasized, "We need close security cooperation to combat ISIS terrorism, smuggling, and to address any shortcomings in previous agreements."
Prime Minister al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq's firm commitment to preventing any attacks on Iran from Iraqi territory, stating, "Our partnership with Tehran is a cornerstone of the shared aspirations of the Iraqi and Iranian peoples." He praised the newly signed agreements, which are set to enhance collaboration across multiple sectors.
The security agreement between Iraq and Iran, initially signed in March 2023, saw the involvement of the Kurdistan Regional Government's Interior Minister. Its primary objective was the disarmament of Kurdish opposition groups based in the Kurdistan Region. However, despite more than a year having passed, Iran continues to push for the full implementation of the agreement, especially regarding the relocation of opposition groups.
Pressure from Iran to execute the provisions of the agreement has intensified, with the first wave of Komala Party members and their families relocated to the Surdash camp on September 6, 2024, marking the beginning of the relocation process.
The Iranian armed opposition, including the Iranian Communist Party (Komala), the Kurdistan Laborers Association (Komala Zahmatkeshan), and the Komala Party of Iranian Kurdistan, has been settled in three villages in the Zarkois area for three decades. Over the past year, these groups have engaged in several meetings with Iraqi and Kurdistan Regional Government officials in an attempt to prevent relocation, but their efforts have ultimately failed.
Prime Minister al-Sudani also highlighted discussions on improving transportation and logistical links between the two countries, particularly regarding large-scale projects like the Development Road and border industrial zones. He further praised Iran's role in brokering a gas purchase deal with Turkmenistan.
President Pezeshkian vowed to ensure the full implementation of the memorandums of understanding, noting that this visit "offers a valuable opportunity to activate past agreements and deepen bilateral cooperation."
This visit to Iraq marks Pezeshkian's first foreign trip as president, aimed at strengthening economic, cultural, political, and security relations with neighboring Islamic countries. His three-day trip includes additional meetings and agreements aimed at further enhancing ties between Iraq and Iran.