Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to visit Baghdad on Friday to engage in high-level discussions with Iraqi officials, focusing on regional stability and the escalating conflict in Syria.

According to a source in Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Araghchi’s itinerary includes meetings with Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Prime Minister Mohammad Shia' al-Sudani, and President Abdul Latif Rashid. The talks are expected to cover Syria's ongoing instability and broader Middle Eastern issues.

A Diplomatic Tour of Key Capitals

The Baghdad visit follows Araghchi’s recent diplomatic missions to Damascus and Ankara, where Syria’s crisis was a central theme. During his stop in Damascus, Araghchi met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, reaffirming Iran’s unwavering support for Syria’s government, military, and people amid the prolonged conflict.

In Ankara, Araghchi held talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss bilateral ties and regional challenges, particularly the instability in northern Syria. Both sides expressed concerns about the rise in violence, including increased attacks in the region.

Escalating Tensions in Northern Syria

The visits come amid growing unrest in Syria’s northern governorates. On November 27, Syrian opposition rebel groups launched a large-scale assault, seizing strategic neighborhoods and military facilities, including parts of Aleppo. The renewed violence has heightened concerns among regional stakeholders, including Iran, Iraq, and Turkey.

A Regional Strategy

Araghchi’s trip to Baghdad aims to bolster regional cooperation on Syria and address shared concerns about the broader Middle Eastern crisis. Analysts see this visit as a critical step in shaping Iran’s diplomatic strategy and reinforcing its role in resolving regional conflicts.

With tensions at a peak and Syria’s stability hanging in the balance, the meetings in Baghdad are expected to provide a platform for dialogue and coordination among key regional players. Observers are closely watching for any potential shifts in diplomatic approaches to the crisis.