Iran's top diplomat praises Iraq efforts as regional broker

Iran’s foreign minister has praised Baghdad’s efforts aimed at bolstering regional stability and says he hopes they would lead to more negotiations and understandings” in the region

BAGHDAD -- Iran’s foreign minister on Monday praised Baghdad's efforts aimed at bolstering regional stability, saying he hopes they would lead to “more negotiations and understandings” in the region. Mohammad Javad Zarif spoke to reporters during a visit to the Iraqi capital, which earlier this month hosted the first round of direct talks between regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran. The talks signaled a possible de-escalation following years of animosity that often spilled into neighboring countries and at least one still-raging war. Zarif also extended Iran’s condolences after a massive fire at a Baghdad hospital for coronavirus patients over the weekend killed 82 people. Officials said the blaze, which also injured 110 people, was set off by an exploding oxygen cylinder. Riyadh has been trying to end its years-long war in Yemen against Iran-backed Houthi rebels who have increasingly launched missiles and bomb-laden drones at the kingdom to targeting crucial sites and oil infrastructure. Ending that war could be a bargaining chip for the Iranians as they seek sanctions relief from nuclear talks in Vienna.