Hamas and Houthis establish offices in Baghdad, strengthening ties with Iran

Hamas and the Houthis have recently established offices in Baghdad, marking a significant shift in their relationship with Iraq. This development follows years of informal visits by representatives of these Iranian-backed groups. The Iraqi government has allowed this permanent presence, despite public denials, indicating a growing alignment with Tehran's regional ambitions. The establishment of these offices is part of Iran's broader strategy to strengthen its influence and create a coalition of Shiite power across the region, including connections to Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. The geopolitical landscape in Iraq has been complex since the U.S. invasion over two decades ago, with the country balancing its ties between Iran and the United States. Iran has been actively working to enhance its sway in Iraq by supporting Shiite militias and integrating them into the national security framework. This has led to the legitimization of various armed groups, which have also formed successful political parties, influencing the political landscape significantly. The presence of Hamas and the Houthis in Baghdad reflects a strategic move by Iran to foster cooperation among its proxies, sharing military expertise and coordinating efforts against common adversaries. This shift underscores Iraq's increasing role in the ongoing regional conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S., as well as the complexities of its internal politics. As these groups solidify their presence in Iraq, the implications for regional stability and security are profound. The growing ties among these factions could lead to heightened tensions and further complicate the already intricate dynamics of power in the Middle East.