Top officials from the United States and Iraq convened at the Pentagon to underscore their unwavering dedication to bolstering regional security amidst ongoing challenges. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani engaged in pivotal discussions aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties and confronting shared threats, notably the persistent presence of ISIS.
Reflecting on a decade of collaborative efforts within the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, Secretary Austin commended Iraq’s leadership and reiterated America’s steadfast support for Iraq’s security endeavors. Despite the territorial defeat of Daesh, both nations acknowledged the enduring menace posed by the terrorist organization and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring its ultimate eradication.
Crucially, the dialogue also delved into the transition towards a sustainable bilateral security relationship between the US and Iraq. Emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation, both parties expressed optimism about the evolving nature of their partnership.
Integral to this evolving alliance is the comprehensive defense cooperation between the two nations, spanning various strategic initiatives. Notably, Iraq’s Ministry of Defense recently formalized a request for counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from the US, signifying a significant milestone in their collaborative efforts.
Prime Minister al-Sudani echoed Secretary Austin’s sentiments, lauding the international coalition’s support in combating terrorism on Iraqi soil. Emphasizing Iraq’s readiness to uphold stability and security, he underscored the importance of ongoing discussions within the Higher Military Commission (HMC) and the combined security framework.
Looking ahead, both leaders expressed a shared commitment to nurturing their security partnership amidst regional complexities. With challenges persisting in the broader Middle East, the US and Iraq affirmed their resolve to prevent escalations and safeguard regional stability.
