Iraq has renewed its proposal for a regional security dialogue bringing together Iran and the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries, emphasizing that lasting stability in the Middle East requires cooperation among the countries of the region.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein outlined the initiative on Sunday following the conclusion of the 52nd session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Baghdad.
Speaking at a joint press conference with OIC Secretary-General Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, Hussein stressed the need for a regional approach to addressing ongoing conflicts and security challenges.
The proposal, known as the 6+2 initiative, would bring together the six GCC member states, Iraq and Iran to discuss shared security concerns and explore opportunities for dialogue.
The minister said Baghdad would continue consultations with the concerned governments in an effort to organize a meeting, although no date has been announced.
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Hussein explained that Iraq had initially proposed the framework three years ago, but the initiative did not move forward because of regional circumstances. He said recent contacts among Gulf countries, Iraq and Iran had created an opportunity to revisit the proposal.
The Iraqi foreign minister emphasized that regional governments should work together to address their security challenges rather than depend entirely on external powers. He also suggested that a future meeting could discuss ways to end the ongoing conflict, strengthen regional stability and develop initiatives supporting peace.
Iraq has maintained diplomatic relations with Iran, Gulf countries and the United States, allowing Baghdad to communicate with governments that often hold different positions on regional issues. The latest proposal comes amid continuing tensions involving Iran, instability in Yemen and concerns over the security of important maritime routes.
However, the initiative remains at the consultation stage, and the participation of the proposed countries has not yet been confirmed.
The renewed proposal highlights Iraq’s efforts to strengthen its diplomatic role in the region and encourage dialogue among neighboring countries.
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As a country maintaining political and economic relations with both Iran and the Gulf states, Iraq has an interest in reducing tensions that could affect regional trade, investment and infrastructure development.
The proposed security framework could also support Baghdad’s wider economic ambitions, including the Development Road project, which aims to connect the Gulf with Turkey and European markets through Iraq. Such projects depend on stable regional relations and secure transport routes.
While differences remain among the countries concerned, the initiative provides an opportunity to explore whether common economic and security interests can create space for cooperation.
Its future will depend on the willingness of regional governments to participate and whether consultations lead to a structured dialogue on the issues affecting their shared security.
Anoush Taimur is an International Relations graduate from DHA Suffa University, Karachi, currently based in Doha. Her research interests include Gulf politics, small-state diplomacy, Global South studies and conflict
mediation. Her work examines how states create influence through connectivity, institutions and strategic relationships. She can be reached at [email protected]
