Mirghasem Momeni, an expert on regional affairs, stated: “Security and economy are two interdependent components. If sustainable security is established in border regions, we can witness investment growth, the development of border trade, job creation, and economic prosperity in these areas.”
In an interview with a correspondent for Iranian Kurdistan Human Rights Watch regarding the significance of the official announcement of the prohibition of activities by armed militant groups based in Iraqi Kurdistan and the various dimensions of this issue, Mirghasem Momeni, referring to the history of security cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad, noted: “The Islamic Republic of Iran has always strived to safeguard its national security and the interests of its people and has used every legitimate means to prevent terrorist acts against Iranian citizens.”
Pointing to Iran’s role in the fight against ISIS, he asserted: “Iran’s effective role in countering Takfiri groups is undeniable. The Iraqi government also acknowledges that without Iran’s support, the suppression of ISIS would not have been possible.”
Emphasizing that security is a common priority for all countries, Momeni stressed: “No country allows its security to be compromised. Iran has also consistently sought to ensure the safety of its citizens by preventing the activities of terrorist groups both domestically and abroad.”
He considered the establishment and activity of certain terrorist groups in Iraqi Kurdistan a serious challenge to the region’s security, saying: “The Iranian government has repeatedly and officially called upon the central government of Iraq and the authorities of Iraqi Kurdistan to prevent the terrorist and provocative actions of these groups in the border areas with Iran. Unfortunately, in some cases, Iran has been forced to act within the framework of legitimate defense to counter these threats.”
The regional affairs expert, referring to international treaties and legal principles, stated: “Based on bilateral agreements and international conventions, the Iraqi government has a direct responsibility to deal with terrorist groups on its soil and cannot evade this responsibility. The Kurdistan Regional Government, as part of the Iraqi government, is also obliged to cooperate in this area.”
Momeni further added: “If the central government of Iraq fails to contain these groups, Iran will be compelled to act to protect its own security, an action that will undoubtedly have its own repercussions.”
He emphasized: “Security and economy are two interdependent components. If sustainable security is established in border regions, we can witness investment growth, the development of border trade, job creation, and economic prosperity in these areas. However, if insecurity persists, both Iran and Iraq will suffer.”
The regional affairs expert also stressed the need for judicial cooperation between the two countries and called for the extradition of perpetrators of terrorist acts to Iran. According to him, the judicial follow-up of this issue should be on the agenda of the judiciary and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Iraqi government is obliged to hand over these criminals to Iran.
Momeni added: “Alongside a decisive crackdown on terrorists, the ground should also be prepared for the safe and voluntary return of individuals who have repented, so that they can reintegrate into their families and society. Creating urban infrastructure, promoting social development, and investing in border regions, especially Kurdish-populated areas, can minimize the influence of extremist groups.”
In conclusion, he noted: “The development of investment is dependent on security, and the establishment of security, in turn, depends on targeted investment in deprived border regions. By properly implementing these policies, we can simultaneously strengthen the ground for sustainable development and national security.”
