US expresses concern over Hamas office in Baghdad as regional tensions simmer

NEWSROOM — The U.S. has raised concerns following reports that Hamas has established a political office in Baghdad, signaling a potential shift in Iraq’s role in regional tensions. According to a report by The New York Times, both Hamas and the Houthis have opened offices in the Iraqi capital, a move tied to Tehran’s efforts to strengthen its regional influence.

At a press briefing on Sept. 16, 2024, Matthew Miller, U.S. State Department spokesperson, warned that allowing Hamas and the Houthis to operate in Iraq could lead to increased destabilization. Labeling both as terrorist organizations, Miller stated their presence could “undermine Iraq’s goals for stability, sovereignty, and economic growth.” He emphasized the U.S. commitment to supporting a secure Iraq and expressed concern over Iraq becoming more entangled in regional conflicts due to the activities of these groups.

The New York Times report noted that these new offices, established in June, were quietly permitted by Iraqi officials. Unlike previous brief visits by representatives of these groups, this marks a more permanent presence in Baghdad. The offices reportedly remain unmarked, and their locations are closely guarded. Iraqi and Western officials, as well as a member of an Iraqi armed group, confirmed that the offices were primarily intended to strengthen links within Iraq, positioning the country as a growing player in the broader conflict between Iran, Israel, and the U.S.

Currently, Hamas operates its main political office in Qatar, where its leaders have resided since 2012. However, some reports suggest Qatar may close this office as part of a broader reassessment of its role in mediating the Israel-Hamas conflict. In June, The National reported that Hamas was considering relocating some of its leaders to Iraq due to increased pressure from Washington and Doha to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Both the Iraqi government and Hamas have denied these reports.

On Sept. 12, Iraq condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, characterizing Israeli actions as a “brutal and criminal” campaign. Government spokesperson Basem Al-Awadi called for international intervention, reinforcing Iraq’s strong position against Israeli policies in the region. Concerns have been raised that the presence of Iranian-backed groups in Iraq could invite Israeli military action, further destabilizing the country.

This development comes in the context of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which dramatically escalated on October 7 when Hamas launched a surprise attack involving rocket barrages and armed incursions. Israel responded with large-scale military operations, including airstrikes and artillery fire. According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 41,252 people have been killed since the conflict began, now entering its 12th month.

In Yemen, the Houthis have launched attacks on international shipping in solidarity with Hamas, targeting vessels associated with Israel, the U.S., and Britain. Since November, these attacks have resulted in the sinking of ships and the deaths of crew members.