Iran’s Quds Force Commander Secretly Visits Baghdad Amid Iraqi Militia Disarmament Talks

Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, made a covert visit to Baghdad where he met with senior Iraqi officials and militia leaders. The discussions focused on the increasing pressure to disarm various militia factions and Iraq’s efforts to resume oil exports through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The pro-Iranian militias in Iraq, however, remain divided on these issues. Some factions have shown willingness to renegotiate their relationship with the Iraqi government, but others, including Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba, and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, refuse to relinquish their military capabilities. These groups link any disarmament talks to the complete withdrawal of foreign forces from Iraq and guarantees of protection against external attacks.

Qaani’s visit underscores Tehran’s concern over the evolving political and security dynamics in Iraq, especially regarding the future role and armament of Iranian-backed militias. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact regional stability and Iran’s influence in Iraq. The visit was reported on August 11, 2026, with ongoing developments expected as Iraq pursues restoring its oil exports and managing militia integration.