Iraq-Saudi security talks began Thursday as a senior Iraqi security delegation arrived in Riyadh. The discussions aim to ease tensions surrounding alleged drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory.
Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Al Shammari leads the Iraqi delegation. He serves as director of the commander-in-chief’s office and oversees key security coordination.
Iraqi National Intelligence Service chief Hamid Al Shatri also joined the delegation. Air Defense commander Lieutenant General Muhanad Al Asadi is also taking part.
Counter-Terrorism Service chief Lieutenant General Zaid Hawshi completes the senior Iraqi delegation. Their participation highlights the importance Baghdad places on the security discussions.
The Iraqi government said both sides will discuss several security files of mutual interest. The drone issue will remain a central focus during the meetings.
The two sides will also examine ways to strengthen security coordination. They are expected to discuss intelligence sharing and measures to prevent cross-border attacks.
Tensions between Baghdad and Riyadh have increased following alleged drone attacks targeting Saudi territory. Saudi authorities have accused Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq of launching those attacks.
The accusations contributed to a major escalation in late July. United States and Saudi forces subsequently carried out strikes against positions linked to Iran-backed groups.
The strikes reportedly killed at least 20 fighters from the Popular Mobilisation Forces. They also killed several Iranian military advisers and injured dozens of people.
Baghdad strongly condemned the strikes and rejected attempts to involve Iraq in regional conflicts. Iraqi officials have repeatedly stressed that Iraqi territory should not become a launchpad for attacks.
The escalation also disrupted diplomatic plans between Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi postponed a planned visit to Riyadh following the strikes.
Saudi intelligence chief Khalid bin Ali Al Humaidan later traveled to Baghdad. His visit sought to contain tensions and maintain security communication between both countries.
During his visit, Al Humaidan renewed the invitation for Al Zaidi to travel to Riyadh. However, officials have linked the trip to progress on security understandings.
Meanwhile, Thursday’s discussions are expected to focus on stopping unauthorized drone activity. The two sides will also examine air defense coordination and expanded intelligence cooperation.
The presence of Iraq’s intelligence and counter-terrorism chiefs carries particular significance. Their participation signals Baghdad’s intention to address armed group activity and wider border threats.
Since February, Iran-aligned armed factions have claimed drone attacks across Iraq and the wider region. Some factions described those attacks as support for Iran during the ongoing conflict.
However, the groups have denied responsibility for attacks targeting Saudi energy facilities. Saudi Arabia has nevertheless repeatedly warned against attacks originating from Iraqi territory.
The latest Iraq-Saudi security talks therefore carry significant security and diplomatic importance. Their outcome could influence efforts to rebuild trust between Baghdad and Riyadh.
The talks also come as the US-led coalition prepares to reduce its military presence in Iraq. That transition could increase pressure on Baghdad to strengthen independent security arrangements.
Consequently, Iraq and Saudi Arabia share an interest in preventing further cross-border attacks. Both governments also have an interest in limiting wider regional escalation.
The latest Iraq-Saudi security talks could determine whether relations move beyond the current crisis. Progress could also help revive the Iraqi prime minister’s postponed visit to Riyadh.
For now, officials face pressure to establish practical mechanisms against unauthorized drone launches. Stronger coordination could help prevent Iraqi territory from becoming a launchpad for regional attacks.
