TEHRAN- The initial phase of the Tehran-Baghdad security pact, aimed at addressing the threat posed by separatist terrorist factions, has been successfully executed, Tasnim reported on Tuesday.

Since the victory of the Islamic Revolution, separatist elements have operated in Iran's northwest, aligning with the Baathist regime during the late 1980s imposed war. Following the end of the war, these groups, primarily based in the Iraqi Kurdistan region, intensified their activities, and Iran adopted a new strategy against them.

These groups, situated around 250 kilometers inside Iraqi territory, agreed to cease military actions and transition to political endeavors. However, following the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, these groups resumed hostile activities. Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) responded with significant ground operations, inflicting heavy losses on these groups while fortifying the border.

With evidence linking these factions to foreign spy agencies, notably Mossad, and their involvement in internal unrest, including the 2022 riots, Iranian security agencies prioritized the expulsion and disarmament of these terrorist groups. 

In tandem with military operations, Tehran pursued diplomatic avenues, culminating in the security agreement with Iraq. Per the terms, terrorist groups must vacate their border headquarters, disarm, and relocate deeper into Iraqi territory.