A New Push for Gulf-Iran Dialogue Begins in Baghdad

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein, right, shakes hands with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, during his visit to Baghdad, Iraq, Sunday, June 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Hadi Mizban)

Iraq has proposed a meeting between the Gulf countries, Iran, and Iraq to discuss regional security, reducing tensions, and improving economic ties. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said Iraq is willing to host talks involving the six Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, Iran, and Iraq.

The proposal comes after recent fighting in the region and a new agreement between the United States and Iran. Iraq says continued conflict could harm the entire Middle East and believes countries in the region should work together to protect their own security.

Iran welcomed the idea and said it is ready to cooperate with Iraq. Iranian officials also called for a regional security system that does not rely on outside powers.

However, Gulf countries remain cautious because of past attacks linked to Iran and Iran-backed groups. No GCC government has publicly accepted the proposal yet.

Iraq has been trying to act as a mediator between Iran and the Gulf states while facing pressure from the United States to limit Iran’s influence inside Iraq.

Iranian officials also discussed the future of regional security and the Strait of Hormuz, saying Iran should manage it and warning against outside interference.