TEHRAN Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has highlighted the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), as a key pillar of Iraq's national strength.In a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, held in Tehran on Wednesday, the leader called for concerted efforts to preserve and strengthen this powerful force amid ongoing challenges to the countrys sovereignty and unity.He remarked, As you have noted, the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), or Hashd al-Shaabi, play a crucial role in safeguarding Iraqs strength.
Efforts must continue to preserve and further reinforce this significant pillar of national resilience.
The Leader also expressed concern over indications that the United States is actively working to entrench its presence in Iraq, urging Baghdad to stand firm against such moves.
Ayatollah Khamenei characterized this presence as illegal and detrimental to the sovereignty and well-being of the Iraqi nation.Iraq continues to grapple with terrorism backed by Western and Israeli forces and is pressing for the withdrawal of United States -led military forces from its territory, as mandated by a resolution passed in Iraqs parliament following Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimanis assassination in Baghdad.
During the meeting, the Leader also lauded al-Sudani for his effective efforts toward ensuring Iraqs development and security.Highlighting the deep ties between the two nations, Ayatollah Khamenei underscored that a secure and prosperous Iraq is not only beneficial to its people but also serves the interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
During the discussion, Ayatollah Khamenei praised the Iraqi governments strong rapport with its people, describing unity among Iraqs diverse religious and ethnic groups as a vital foundation for the countrys progress.Turning to the region, Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted the ongoing turmoil in Syria, attributing much of the instability to external interference.
The involvement of foreign governments in Syrias crises is both evident and harmful, he said, calling for greater regional cooperation to restore peace and stability.
The meeting was attended by senior Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, who welcomed the deepening bilateral discussions.Prime Minister al-Sudani, in turn, expressed satisfaction with the talks, emphasizing his governments commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Iraq and Iran.
He noted that the agreements reached during his Tehran visit would further solidify the two nations political, economic, and cultural ties.
Al-Sudani outlined the key pillars of Iraqs national strength, including its resilient people, the PMF, national unity, and the guiding role of religious authorities.Addressing recent Israeli aggression in Gaza and Lebanon, he reaffirmed Iraqs unwavering support for the Palestinian and Lebanese people, as well as for resistance movements throughout the region.
Commenting on the Syrian crisis, the Iraqi Prime Minister reiterated his governments stance in favor of Syrias territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and the formation of an inclusive government that reflects the will of the Syrian people.
He also stressed the importance of regional solidarity in countering foreign interference and fostering sustainable peace.
Pezeshkian calls for regional stability in talks with Iraqi PMIn a press conference following a meeting with Iraqs Prime Minister, Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the Islamic Republics commitment to fostering peace, stability, and security across the region.The Iranian president noted that Iraq is currently enjoying a phase of stability and development after defeating the Takfiri terrorist group Daesh.
"The Republic of Iraq is not only an important neighbor but also a strategic partner for Iran," Pezeshkian stated.
"We are delighted that our bilateral relations have reached an optimal level, with mutual cooperation expanding across various fields daily." Prime Minister Sudani arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, where he was officially received by Irans Finance Minister, Abdol-Nasser Hemmati.
His visit included high-level discussions held at Tehrans Saad Abad Historical and Cultural Complex.
He also had a meeting with Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament on Wednesday.Sudani expressed that his trip to Iran was part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration and strengthen communications between the two countries.
He praised the positive outcomes of Pezeshkians visit to Iraq last year, during which the Iranian president held extensive talks on economic, social, developmental, religious, and contractual issues.
Pezeshkians visit also included stops in Baghdad, the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf, the southern port city of Basra, and the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region.
During the joint press conference, Sudani also addressed regional challenges, particularly Syrias ongoing instability following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).