Iraq’s national security advisor briefs US envoy on border deal with Iran

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji met Saturday with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Iraq Steven Fagin to discuss bilateral ties, counterterrorism cooperation, and regional stability.

Al-Araji briefed Fagin on the memorandum of understanding signed between Iraq and Iran on border control, saying the agreement is intended to support regional security, prevent smuggling and infiltration, and strengthen stability. He stressed that Iraq “bases its policies on its supreme national interests and acts as an independent and sovereign state,” adding that the government pursues balanced relations with regional and international partners and continues its policy of diplomatic openness.

On Aug. 11, Iraqi National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji and Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, signed a new joint security memorandum in Baghdad under the oversight of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The agreement focuses on strengthening coordination along the Iraq-Iran border, preventing cross-border militant activity, and expanding cooperation between security forces. It follows a similar pact signed in March 2023, when Iraq committed to stopping armed groups based in its Kurdish region from launching attacks into Iran.

Translation of the statement from Al-Araji’s office:

National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji received U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Iraq, Ambassador Steven Fagin, at his office on Saturday.

The meeting discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and the importance of continuing joint cooperation in counterterrorism and the exchange of information and expertise.

Al-Araji reviewed details of the security memorandum of understanding signed between Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding border control, which contributes to supporting security and stability in the region and preventing smuggling and infiltration. He stressed that Iraq bases its policies on its supreme national interests and acts as an independent and sovereign state, emphasizing that the Iraqi government pursues balanced relations with regional and international states and continues its policy of diplomatic openness toward friendly and brotherly nations.

For his part, Ambassador Fagin reaffirmed U.S. support for the Iraqi government’s balanced policies in its internal and external relations, praising efforts made in the file of returning displaced persons and plans for their rehabilitation. He also revealed that an international conference will soon be held in New York to encourage countries to repatriate their nationals from Syria’s al-Hol camp and bring this issue to a full conclusion.

Office of the National Security Advisor
August 16, 2025