**Georgian Deputy FM Attends Iranian Embassy Event, Amid Controversy Over Alignment**
The Georgian Deputy Foreign Minister, Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili, recently attended a memorial event at the Iranian Embassy in Tbilisi. The event was held to honor those who died during Israel’s armed attack on Iran’s territorial integrity. According to reports from the Iranian Embassy, the event was attended by ambassadors and representatives from several countries, including Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, China, and religious groups.
**Controversy Over Georgian Alignment**
The Georgian government’s increasing alignment with Iran has been a topic of controversy in recent times. While the Georgian Foreign Ministry expressed concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East, the ruling party, Georgian Dream (GD), has come under scrutiny for its close ties with Iran. In 2024, GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze made two official trips to Iran, where he was seen standing next to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. This incident sparked harsh criticism from pro-Western opposition and civil society.
**US Concerns Over Georgian Alignment**
The US House of Representatives passed the MEGOBARI Act in May, which envisions sanctions against GD for its growing alignment with Iran, Russia, and China, as well as domestic anti-democratic tendencies. U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson has been vocal about his concerns over Georgia’s ties with Iran and other illiberal regimes. He recently tweeted, “Why was Georgian PM Kobakhidze hanging out with IRGC, Hezbollah, and Hamas leaders in Iran just a few months ago? The same terrorists actively plotted to assassinate Donald Trump and call for the death of America every day.”
**Georgia’s Relations with Iran Under Scrutiny**
The recent events at the Iranian Embassy in Tbilisi have brought Georgia’s relations with Iran back into focus. While GD has denied any wrongdoing, critics argue that the government’s close ties with Iran pose a risk to regional security and democratic values. The Georgian public remains divided on the issue, with some supporting closer ties with Iran and others expressing concern over the implications for democracy and human rights.
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