Iraq Involved in Talks Between Iran and Saudi Arabia to Normalize Relations

CAIRO - In recent months, Iraqi mediators have been working patiently behind the scenes to try to bring about a diplomatic rapprochement between long-time adversaries Iran and Saudi Arabia. No immediate breakthrough appears on the horizon, though.

Iraqi President Barham Salih has told Arab media that improved ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia would be beneficial for Baghdad and the rest of the region. "For Iraq to be able to play that convenient role between these regional actors is important,” he said. “The theme is that a stable, sovereign Iraq is a common interest of our neighbors. Instead of Iran being a source of instability, let it be the common, binding theme for bringing the region together." The comments come amid reports that Saudi intelligence chief Khaled al Hmeidan met with the Iranian Revolutionary Guards "Quds Forces" leader Ismail Qa'ani in Baghdad last month. It was not clear what progress was made, if any.