Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi traveled to Tehran to seek peace as U.S. strikes against Iran escalate over strategic shipping routes.
Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi of Iraq traveled to Tehran on Thursday to advocate for peace and dialogue as tensions between the U.S. and Iran intensify. During his visit, Ali al-Zaidi pledged to ensure Iraqi territory would not be used as a staging ground for attacks against Iran. The diplomatic mission follows a series of escalating strikes as the U.S. military completed its 13th night of bombardment against Iran. The conflict centers on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global trade. The administration announced that the latest strikes aimed to weaken Iran's ability to threaten commercial vessels. Economic pressure is mounting as international oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel. While the administration seeks to secure shipping lanes, Yemen’s Houthi rebels have also targeted Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea. President Trump warned of major military punishment for the Houthis and stated that sanctioned Iranian funds held by the U.S. will cover the costs of repairing damaged ships.