Iran and Iraq Hold Joint Press Conference in Baghdad as Regional Tensions Remain High

Iran and Iraq Hold Joint Press Conference in Baghdad as Regional Tensions Remain High

Published: June 28, 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, in Baghdad on Sunday, June 28, 2026, where the two leaders held a joint press conference focused on regional security, bilateral cooperation, and the ongoing tensions affecting the Middle East. �

Reuters Connect +1

The meeting comes at a sensitive moment as the region continues to deal with heightened military tensions following recent exchanges involving Iran, the United States, and several Gulf countries. Both ministers stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue and preventing further escalation that could threaten regional stability. �

Reuters Connect +1

During the press conference, Araqchi reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to strengthening political, economic, and security cooperation with Iraq. He described Iraq as one of Iran's closest regional partners and said both governments remain determined to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, border security, and infrastructure. �

Mehr News Agency +1

A major topic of discussion was the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important maritime shipping routes. Araqchi stated that Iran considers the management and security of the strategic waterway to be its responsibility and warned that outside interference could increase regional tensions and complicate efforts to restore normal maritime traffic. �

Tasnim News +1

Fuad Hussein emphasized Iraq's desire to reduce tensions through diplomacy and reiterated Baghdad's willingness to facilitate dialogue between Iran and neighboring Gulf states. Iraqi officials said the country is prepared to host regional discussions aimed at improving security cooperation and preventing further conflict in the Gulf. �

Kurdistan24 - کوردستان 24 +1

The visit also highlighted the close diplomatic relationship between Tehran and Baghdad despite the increasingly complex security environment across the Middle East. Officials from both countries expressed hope that continued dialogue would contribute to regional stability while preserving economic ties and protecting vital trade routes.

The Baghdad meeting is being closely watched by regional and international observers as governments continue efforts to prevent the latest tensions from developing into a broader conflict. �

Reuters Connect +1