Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, Acting Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives, recently highlighted the declining influence of the Iranian regime in the region. In an interview with Reuters, Al-Mandalawi emphasized the need to restrict the possession of weapons to the Iraqi government, marking a significant step in curbing the influence of Iranian-backed militias.

“Limiting arms to the government is an important matter, and I hope it will be implemented,” Al-Mandalawi stated. He acknowledged that persuading groups aligned with the Iranian regime to disarm will take time, but expressed optimism, citing Iraq’s shifting priorities and its focus on economic development.

Al-Mandalawi, a member of the Iraqi Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) — a coalition of prominent politicians with close ties to Iran — is one of several Iraqi leaders advocating for reduced external interference. His remarks come at a time when calls to diminish the influence of Iranian proxy groups in Iraq have intensified, particularly following Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Iraq’s Diplomatic Reorientation

Fuad Hussein, Iraq’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced on January 16, 2025, that Baghdad is seeking to strengthen relations with Washington under Trump’s presidency. Hussein also noted that the Iraqi government is actively working to convince Iranian-backed armed groups to lay down their weapons, signaling a potential shift in Iraq’s internal dynamics.

Al-Mandalawi underscored the changing regional landscape, stating, “I do not think that Iran’s weakening will have a negative impact on Iraq. Iraq has gradually assumed its natural role among Arab countries. While Iran is a neighbor with which we share historical ties, our geographical location and relations with Arab nations are independent issues.”

This diplomatic realignment comes as Iraq seeks stability and reconstruction after years of conflict, aiming to prevent further disruption and strengthen its sovereignty.
Iranian Regime Faces Mounting Challenges

The Iranian regime is grappling with multiple challenges, both regionally and domestically. Informed sources cited by The Telegraph report that Tehran has instructed its proxy groups across the Middle East to exercise caution in light of the new Trump administration’s policies. Commanders of Iranian-backed militias have been ordered to avoid actions that could be perceived as provocative by the United States or its allies. This includes refraining from using Iranian-made weapons in any potential engagements.

In Iraq and Yemen, these groups have been explicitly directed to maintain defensive positions and avoid targeting U.S. forces. The Iranian regime’s cautious approach reflects its weakened position following significant setbacks, including heavy losses sustained by Hezbollah and the collapse of its key ally, Bashar al-Assad, in Syria. The fall of Assad has disrupted Tehran’s arms smuggling routes and deepened concerns about the regime’s ability to maintain its regional influence.
Domestic Weakness and Strategic Adjustments

Domestically, the Iranian regime is facing its lowest level of legitimacy since the 1979 revolution, particularly after the widespread protests of 2022. In response to fears of potential military attacks, Tehran has accelerated negotiations with Russia to acquire the S-400 air defense system. Simultaneously, Iranian officials have softened their rhetoric regarding possible retaliation against Israel, particularly in response to Israeli strikes on Iranian military sites.

Despite these adjustments, senior Iranian officials remain divided on how to navigate the new geopolitical reality. Esmaeil Khatib, Iran’s Minister of Intelligence, warned against engaging in negotiations with the Trump administration, arguing that such talks could be detrimental to Tehran. Meanwhile, state-run media outlets reflect this division, with so-called reformist factions advocating for diplomatic opportunities while hardline publications reject any interaction with the U.S.
The Road Ahead for Iran’s Regime

Analysts suggest that Ali Khamenei, Iran regime’s Supreme Leader, faces a challenging four years. He must decide whether to lift the ban on negotiations with Washington or risk an all-out confrontation with the United States amid growing domestic unrest and international isolation. The outcome of this decision could reshape the region’s geopolitical landscape.

As Iraq pursues its path toward sovereignty and reconstruction, and as Iran’s regime contends with its waning influence, the Middle East finds itself at a pivotal moment. The interplay between these dynamics will likely define the region’s trajectory in the years to come.

Source » irannewsupdate