Iraq, Iran security chiefs discuss preventing cross-border infiltration

By Hüsameddin Salih and Tarek Chouiref

ISTANBUL (AA) - Iraqi National Security Adviser Qassem al-Araji held a call Tuesday with Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, to discuss strengthening border security and preventing infiltration by “terrorist groups” between the two countries.

According to the Iraqi state news agency, INA, the call reviewed regional developments and emphasized the importance of tightening control along the shared border, and enhancing coordination to block any attempts by “terrorist groups” to cross between Iraq and Iran.

Baghdad considers Tehran a key ally, particularly for its support during Iraq’s fight against terrorism, according to previous statements by Iraqi officials.

Larijani’s outreach came hours after a separate call Tuesday with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, during which regional developments were also discussed, amid protests in Iran and renewed Israeli and US rhetoric on the possibility of military action against Tehran.

Earlier Tuesday, Israel’s public broadcaster KAN said the United States was “closer than ever” to launching an attack on Iran.

Addressing Iranian protesters earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said on his Truth Social platform that “help is on the way,” without elaborating.

He also announced the cancellation of all meetings with Iranian officials “until the killing of protesters stops,” according to his statement.

Several countries, including China and Russia, have voiced opposition to any US military intervention in Iran’s internal affairs.

Anti-government protests have swept several Iranian cities since late last month because of worsening economic conditions in Iran.

There are no official casualty figures, but the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a US-based rights group, estimates that the death toll at more than 2,000, including security forces and protesters.