Iraq and Iran Sign MoU to Extend Railway from Kermanshah to Baghdad

Published: 31 July 2026

Iraq and Iran strengthen cross-border rail cooperation

Iraq and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance plans for a new cross-border railway linking Kermanshah – Khosravi – Khanaqin – Baghdad, marking another step towards improving regional rail connectivity and trade.

The agreement was signed in Tehran during a ceremony witnessed by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside the signing of several bilateral agreements covering transport, municipal cooperation and public administration.

The railway MoU forms part of a wider package that includes:

• International road freight transport cooperation
• Extension of the railway from Kermanshah–Khosravi–Khanaqin to Baghdad
• Twinning of Baghdad Municipality and Tehran Municipality
• Government administration and human resources training

The proposed railway is expected to strengthen passenger and freight connectivity between the two neighbouring countries while supporting regional economic integration.

Regional transport ambitions

Once completed, the railway extension would improve cross-border mobility, facilitate freight movement and form part of a broader vision to enhance transport links between the Middle East and neighbouring regions.

The project complements ongoing efforts by both governments to expand infrastructure cooperation and develop strategic international transport corridors.

Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office