Iran Quds Force chief visits Baghdad, pushing Iraq leadership talks amid US sanctions and rising regional political tensions
Esmail Qaani, head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, has visited Baghdad and held key meetings with political and militia leaders, according to a source cited by Shafaq News on Saturday. The visit comes as Iraqi factions continue to struggle over selecting a new prime minister following recent elections. Notably, this marks Qaani’s first reported trip abroad since Operation Roaring Lion began on February 28, with sources indicating he arrived on April 8.
During the visit, Qaani first met leaders of Iran-backed militias and later held separate discussions with the Shi’ite Coordination Framework, the largest bloc in Iraq’s parliament. Moreover, he reportedly aimed to broker consensus on a candidate for the premiership. Talks also addressed the future of armed groups, including proposals to integrate militias into state security institutions and separate their political and military roles.
US pressure and sanctions shape political landscape
Meanwhile, external pressure has further complicated Iraq’s political negotiations. The Coordination Framework initially backed former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki; however, US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could cut aid if Maliki returned to power. Consequently, divisions within Iraqi politics have deepened.
In addition, the US Treasury Department has intensified action against Iran-backed militias through Operation Economic Fury. Officials sanctioned several militia commanders accused of orchestrating attacks on US personnel and facilities. Furthermore, authorities targeted leaders linked to groups such as Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat Al-Nujaba, and Asaib Ahl Al-Haq.
Separately, the US State Department announced a $10 million reward for information on Kataib Hezbollah leader Ahmad al-Hamidawi. As tensions persist, both regional influence and international pressure continue to shape Iraq’s leadership negotiations.
