Iraq and US Collaborate on Regional Security and Military Operations

On Sunday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed military operations in Yemen and regional security issues, particularly the importance of US-Iraq partnership. Hegseth indicated that US military operations will continue in Yemen until hostilities cease. Al-Sudani emphasized dialogue and de-escalation for resolving Middle Eastern crises and both expressed concern about ISIS activities in Syria.

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, engaged in a telephone conversation with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sunday, focusing on military operations in Yemen and the troubling situation in Syria. During this discussion, both leaders highlighted the strategic partnership between Iraq and the United States, emphasizing their mutual goal of achieving regional stability and security.

Al-Sudani remarked, “The partnership between Iraq and the United States is critical for the stability of the region. We remain committed to ensuring peace and security for all our people.” Hegseth provided updates on the conflict in Yemen, conveying that military operations by the US would persist until Houthi aggression towards American forces ceased and the disruptions in Red Sea shipping routines concluded. Hegseth asserted, “The United States will continue to take action to protect our forces and safeguard vital shipping lanes. We do not seek escalation, but we will defend our interests if necessary.”

The Iraqi Prime Minister emphasized the importance of de-escalation and dialogue as essential methods for resolving crises in the Middle East and reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to these principles. “We must focus on dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions,” stated Al-Sudani. “Violence will only lead to more instability, and we are committed to working with our partners to maintain peace.”

In their discussions concerning Syria, both leaders reiterated their commitment to preventing the resurgence of ISIS. They expressed concern regarding the group’s efforts to acquire new weaponry and reorganize its structure, underscoring the necessity for a unified international response to avert potential disturbances that could further destabilize the region.

This dialogue between Al-Sudani and Hegseth was prompted by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani’s recent visit to Baghdad, during which he conferred with Al-Sudani and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad al-Halbousi, and held a joint press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.

In summary, the discussion between Prime Minister Al-Sudani and US Defense Secretary Hegseth highlights the urgent need for cooperation in addressing the security challenges presented by conflicts in Yemen and Syria. Both leaders emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomatic efforts to ensure regional stability while also pledging to take necessary actions against threats such as ISIS and Houthi aggression. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Middle East.

Original Source: shafaq.com