Ghalibaf's Baghdad Gamble: A Test of Regional Alliances The arrival of Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in Baghdad this week has sent shockwaves through the region, raising questions about the delicate balance of power in Iraq and the wider Middle East.
While Ghalibaf's visit is being touted as a bid to strengthen strategic cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad, it's clear that Iran is seeking to counter growing US pressure on Iraq.
For years, Washington has been pushing Baghdad to crack down on Iran backed militias that have become increasingly influential in Iraqi politics.