Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al-Sudani spoke with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth today to discuss the ongoing strategic partnership between Iraq and the United States. Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to regional stability and security, a crucial priority for both nations.
Secretary Hegseth provided updates on U.S. military operations in Yemen. He stated that the U.S. would continue these operations unless Houthi forces halted attacks on American personnel and stopped disrupting Red Sea navigation. He clarified that Washington does not seek escalation and that military actions would cease immediately if the attacks stopped.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s position on de-escalation and dialogue as the best solutions for addressing regional crises. He emphasized that Iraq remains committed to diplomacy in resolving conflicts and will continue advocating for peaceful solutions.
Both sides discussed ongoing security cooperation within the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. They stressed the importance of counterterrorism efforts and highlighted recent successes in targeting senior ISIS leaders. Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s commitment to protecting Coalition advisors, who are in the country at the government’s invitation to support counterterrorism operations. He also emphasized that Iraq is dedicated to ensuring that the use of force remains solely under state authority.
The discussion also covered security concerns in Syria, where both leaders expressed their determination to prevent ISIS from regaining strength. They warned that the group has acquired new weapons and is attempting to reorganize, which requires a coordinated international response to prevent further escalation.
Secretary Hegseth reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Iraq’s security and stability. Both leaders emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and dialogue to advance shared interests and ensure regional stability and security in the Middle East.
