Are Iran And Iraq Allies? A Deep Dive Into A Complex Relationship

Guadalupe Collins 22 Jun 2025

In the intricate tapestry of Middle Eastern geopolitics, few relationships are as compelling and multifaceted as that between Iran and Iraq. For anyone asking, "is Iran and Iraq allies?", the answer is far from simple, yet undeniably leans towards a significant degree of collaboration. These two nations, once locked in a devastating war, have transitioned into a surprising, albeit complex, partnership, particularly evident in their shared fight against common threats and their deep-seated cultural and religious ties.

The journey from intense rivalry to strategic cooperation is a testament to the shifting sands of regional power dynamics and the enduring influence of internal and external factors. Understanding this evolving bond requires a look back at their tumultuous past, an examination of their current strategic imperatives, and an acknowledgment of the powerful forces that bind them today.

A Shifting Sands of Alliance: Is Iran and Iraq Allies Today?
The Deep Roots of Shi'ite Solidarity
From Bitter Rivals to Strategic Partners: A Historical Overview
- The Scars of the 1980s War
- The Post-Saddam Era: A New Dawn
Iran's Extensive Influence and Proxy Network in Iraq
- The Formidable Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF)
- Permeating Iraqi Spheres: Political, Security, Economic, and Religious
The "Axis of Resistance": Iran's Regional Network
Challenges and Shifting Dynamics for Iran's Allies
Broader Regional Relations and International Backing
The Enduring Question: Is Iran and Iraq Allies for the Long Haul?

A Shifting Sands of Alliance: Is Iran and Iraq Allies Today?

To directly address the question, "is Iran and Iraq allies?", the answer, particularly in recent years, is a resounding yes, though with layers of nuance. The data unequivocally states that "Iran and Iraq are very close allies supporting each other against the Islamic State." This statement highlights a pragmatic alliance forged in the crucible of a shared existential threat. The rise of ISIS created a common enemy that transcended historical animosities, compelling both nations to cooperate on security fronts. This collaboration has been instrumental in pushing back against extremist groups, solidifying a working relationship that might have seemed impossible just a few decades ago. Beyond military cooperation, the alliance extends into various other domains, reflecting a deliberate strategy by both sides to foster stability and mutual interests in a volatile region. This strategic alignment, however, does not erase the complexities of their past or the inherent power imbalances that exist.

The Deep Roots of Shi'ite Solidarity

One of the most significant underpinnings of the current alliance, and a key factor in understanding why "is Iran and Iraq allies" holds true today, is their shared religious identity. "The relationship between the two countries is strong in part because both governments are dominated by Shi'ite Muslims." Iran, as the world's largest Shi'ite-majority nation, and Iraq, with its Shi'ite majority population and Shi'ite-led government, find common ground in their faith. This shared religious heritage provides a powerful cultural and political bond, fostering a sense of solidarity that transcends national borders. For Iran, supporting Shi'ite movements and governments abroad is a cornerstone of its foreign policy, often viewed through the lens of protecting fellow Shi'ites and expanding its regional influence. In Iraq, the Shi'ite political establishment often looks to Iran for religious guidance, political support, and strategic alignment, especially given the historical oppression faced by Shi'ites under previous regimes. This religious connection facilitates deeper cooperation across political, security, and even economic spheres, creating channels for influence and mutual support that might not exist otherwise. It allows for a level of trust and understanding that can overcome diplomatic hurdles and historical grievances, making their alliance more resilient.

From Bitter Rivals to Strategic Partners: A Historical Overview

The current state of affairs, where "is Iran and Iraq allies" is a valid question, represents a monumental shift from their historical trajectory. "In the complex landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics, the relationship between Iran and Iraq presents a compelling study of shifts and turns." For much of the late 20th century, these two nations were anything but allies; they were bitter enemies locked in a brutal and protracted conflict. Understanding this dramatic transformation is crucial to appreciating the depth of their current collaboration.

The Scars of the 1980s War

The most defining period of their rivalry was the Iran-Iraq War, which raged throughout the 1980s. "The harrowing experiences of the 1980s war are etched deeply in their collective memory." This conflict, initiated by Iraq's invasion of Iran, was one of the longest and deadliest conventional wars of the 20th century, resulting in millions of casualties and widespread devastation. At the heart of this conflict was a profound ideological clash. "Iran's new Islamic administration was regarded in Baghdad as an irrational, existential threat to the Ba'ath government, especially because the Ba'ath party, having a secular nature, discriminated against and posed a threat to the fundamentalist Shia movement in Iraq, whose clerics were Iran's allies within Iraq and whom Khomeini saw as oppressed." The secular Ba'athist regime in Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, viewed revolutionary Iran's Shi'ite fundamentalism as a direct challenge to its authority and a potential destabilizing force among Iraq's own Shi'ite majority. This period of intense hostility, fueled by territorial disputes, ideological differences, and regional power ambitions, left deep scars that took decades to begin healing. The memory of this war continues to shape their interactions, even as they now stand as allies against other threats.

The Post-Saddam Era: A New Dawn

The turning point in the Iran-Iraq relationship came with the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime in 2003. "However, the dawn of the new millennium unveiled a..." new opportunity for engagement. With the Ba'athist government, which had been overtly hostile to Tehran, removed from power, a new political landscape emerged in Iraq. The subsequent rise of Shi'ite-dominated political parties and figures in Iraq naturally led to a re-evaluation of its relationship with Iran. For Tehran, a major strategic interest became "preventing the government in Baghdad from again becoming hostile toward Tehran, as it was when Iraq invaded Iran and kicked off the..." devastating war. This shared Shi'ite identity and the absence of the hostile Ba'athist regime paved the way for a rapprochement. Iran actively engaged with the new Iraqi political establishment, leveraging its religious and cultural ties to foster a more amicable and cooperative relationship. This shift from intense rivalry to a surprising collaboration underscores the pragmatic nature of geopolitics, where shared interests and new realities can overcome even the deepest historical grievances, leading to a situation where "is Iran and Iraq allies" becomes a pertinent question.

Iran's Extensive Influence and Proxy Network in Iraq

A crucial aspect of understanding why "is Iran and Iraq allies" is the significant and pervasive influence Iran wields within Iraq. This influence is not merely diplomatic; it extends deeply into Iraq's political, security, economic, and even religious spheres. "Iran maintains strong influence in Iraq and Yemen," and this influence is meticulously cultivated through various channels, most notably through a network of allied groups and militias. Iran's strategic objective in Iraq is multi-faceted: to secure its western flank, ensure a friendly government in Baghdad, and establish a vital land bridge for its "Axis of Resistance." "Iran’s support for Shia militias in Iraq enabled it to solidify its influence in the country and allowed Tehran to create a strategic corridor starting from Iran, passing through Iraq and Syria, and reaching..." the Mediterranean, effectively connecting its allies in Lebanon and Syria.

The Formidable Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF)

At the heart of Iran's security influence in Iraq are the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as Al-Hashd al-Shaabi. "The PMF in Iraq, with an estimated 200,000 fighters, remains formidable." This umbrella organization, largely composed of Shi'ite militias, was initially formed to combat ISIS but has since become a powerful and entrenched force within Iraq's security apparatus. Many of these PMF factions have direct ideological and financial ties to Iran, receiving training, funding, and strategic guidance from Tehran. Groups like Kataib Hezbollah (Iraq), distinct from Lebanon's Hezbollah, are prominent within the PMF and are known for their close alignment with Iranian interests. Their strength and integration into the Iraqi state structure mean that Iran has a significant say in Iraq's security policies and military actions, effectively ensuring that "is Iran and Iraq allies" is reflected in their defense postures. The PMF's continued presence and influence provide Iran with a robust and reliable partner on the ground, capable of projecting power and protecting Iranian interests within Iraq.

Permeating Iraqi Spheres: Political, Security, Economic, and Religious

Iran's influence in Iraq goes far beyond military support. "The Islamic Republic has used these advantages to permeate Iraq’s political, security, economic, and religious spheres." Politically, Iran has cultivated strong relationships with key Iraqi political parties and figures, particularly those with Shi'ite affiliations, influencing government formation and policy decisions. Economically, Iranian goods and investments flow into Iraq, creating interdependence and further strengthening ties. Religiously, the deep reverence for Shi'ite holy sites in Iraq (Najaf, Karbala, Samarra) draws millions of Iranian pilgrims annually, fostering cultural exchange and religious soft power. Iranian clerics and religious institutions also maintain strong ties with their Iraqi counterparts, further cementing this bond. This multi-layered penetration ensures that even if there are occasional disagreements or shifts in Iraqi domestic politics, the fundamental alignment that makes "is Iran and Iraq allies" a reality remains largely intact. Iran's long-term strategy involves ensuring Iraq remains a friendly and stable neighbor, serving as a vital link in its regional strategy and a bulwark against perceived threats.

The "Axis of Resistance": Iran's Regional Network

The alliance between Iran and Iraq, particularly through the PMF and other Iraqi militias, is a critical component of Iran's broader regional strategy, often referred to as the "Axis of Resistance." This network is central to understanding the full scope of Iran's foreign policy and why "is Iran and Iraq allies" is not an isolated phenomenon but part of a larger, interconnected strategy. "Iran has invested heavily in a network of proxy allies across the Middle East, including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and the Islamic Resistance in Iraq." This formidable alliance aims to counter the influence of the United States, Israel, and their regional partners, projecting Iranian power and protecting its interests across the Levant and beyond.

"Iran has spent decades building its axis of resistance across the Middle East," carefully cultivating relationships and providing support to various non-state actors and state entities that share its anti-Western and anti-Israeli stance. The network that Iran calls the "Axis of Resistance" includes "Hamas, Hezbollah, the Syrian government, the Houthis of Yemen and armed groups in Syria and Iraq." Each of these groups plays a distinct role, from political influence to military operations, contributing to Iran's strategic depth. Hezbollah in Lebanon, for instance, is a highly capable military and political force, while the Houthi movement in Yemen exerts significant control over large swathes of the country. Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip are key players in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Iraqi militias, especially the PMF, provide the crucial land bridge and significant military muscle within Iraq itself. This interconnected web ensures that Iran can exert pressure and respond to threats across multiple fronts, making its alliance with Iraq an indispensable part of its regional security architecture.

Challenges and Shifting Dynamics for Iran's Allies

While the answer to "is Iran and Iraq allies" remains generally affirmative, the dynamics within Iran's broader "Axis of Resistance" are not static and face significant challenges. Recent events have highlighted vulnerabilities and shifts within this intricate network. "Iran’s allies have been largely silent since Israel launched a series of attacks last week," a statement that suggests a degree of caution or perhaps a re-evaluation of tactics in the face of escalating regional tensions. This silence, after what has often been a more vocal and reactive posture, points to potential internal or external pressures affecting the network's responsiveness.

Furthermore, the data indicates that "domestic political concerns, as well as tough losses suffered in nearly two years of regional conflicts and upheavals, appear to have led these Iran allies to take a back..." seat or adopt a more restrained approach. The prolonged conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Gaza have taken a toll on these groups, both in terms of resources and manpower. "Iran's allies in Syria, Gaza and Lebanon have been weakened," implying that their operational capacity or political leverage may have diminished. This weakening could stem from various factors, including military setbacks, internal dissent, or increased international pressure. While these challenges might temper the immediate operational readiness or public assertiveness of some of Iran's proxies, they do not necessarily negate the fundamental alliance between Iran and Iraq. Instead, they suggest a period of adaptation and strategic recalibration within the broader Axis of Resistance, where the core question of "is Iran and Iraq allies" remains pertinent, even as the regional landscape evolves.

Broader Regional Relations and International Backing

The question of "is Iran and Iraq allies" also needs to be viewed within the wider context of regional and international relations. While Iran and Iraq have forged a strong bilateral alliance, other regional actors and global powers also play a role in shaping the geopolitical landscape. Historically, Iraq has maintained relationships with various countries, some of which have shifted over time. For instance, "Jordan's support for Iraq during the Persian Gulf War resulted in a further improvement of ties." This highlights a period when Iraq sought alliances beyond its immediate neighbors, though "relations have cooled since the current King of Jordan took office in 2000, but remain good." Such historical nuances remind us that Iraq's foreign policy, while heavily influenced by Iran, is not exclusively tied to it. Other countries, including Gulf states, continue to engage with Baghdad, seeking to balance Iranian influence.

On the international stage, Iran itself receives support from certain global powers, which indirectly strengthens its regional network, including its alliance with Iraq. "While Iran's regional allies, such as Hezbollah and the PMF, face setbacks, support from Pakistan and rhetorical backing from Russia and China remain." This international backing provides Iran with a degree of diplomatic and strategic leverage, allowing it to continue its regional policies and support its allies despite external pressures. The involvement of these major powers adds another layer of complexity to the Middle Eastern equation, influencing the dynamics of alliances and rivalries. The question of "is Iran and Iraq allies" is thus not just a bilateral one but is embedded within a larger web of international relationships and geopolitical maneuvering, where various states and non-state actors vie for influence and security.

The Enduring Question: Is Iran and Iraq Allies for the Long Haul?

So, after delving into the historical shifts, the deep-seated religious ties, and the intricate web of influence, what is the definitive answer to "is Iran and Iraq allies"? The evidence strongly suggests a complex but undeniable alliance. They are "very close allies supporting each other against the Islamic State," bound by shared Shi'ite majority governments and a mutual interest in regional stability and countering common threats. Iran's extensive investment in Iraq, particularly through the formidable Popular Mobilization Forces, and its permeation of Iraq's political, security, economic, and religious spheres, solidifies this partnership. The creation of a strategic corridor through Iraq to Syria and Lebanon further underscores the importance of this alliance to Iran's broader "Axis of Resistance."

However, like any significant geopolitical relationship, it is not without its complexities and potential challenges. The historical animosity of the 1980s war, while largely overcome, remains a collective memory. The recent setbacks faced by some of Iran's regional allies, and the cautious silence from others, indicate a dynamic environment where alliances are constantly tested and adapted. Yet, the core drivers of this alliance – shared faith, strategic necessity, and the absence of a hostile regime in Baghdad – appear robust enough to ensure its continuity for the foreseeable future. The relationship between Iran and Iraq will undoubtedly continue to evolve, shaped by internal Iraqi politics, regional conflicts, and global power shifts. But for now, and in the foreseeable future, when asking "is Iran and Iraq allies," the answer leans heavily towards a strategic, deeply intertwined, and enduring partnership.

What are your thoughts on the future of this alliance? Do you believe the historical animosities could resurface, or will shared interests continue to bind them? Share your insights in the comments below, and don't forget to explore our other articles on Middle Eastern geopolitics for more in-depth analysis!

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