Al-Sudani receives a phone call from the US Secretary of Defense and affirms: De-escalation and dialogue are the two effective ways to address crises in the Middle East.
Al-Sudani receives a phone call from the US Secretary of Defense and affirms: De-escalation and dialogue are the two effective ways to address crises in the Middle East.
2025-03-17
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received a phone call on Sunday from US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, during which they discussed the strategic partnership between Iraq and the United States and their shared interest in regional stability and security.
The US Secretary of Defense reviewed developments related to military operations in Yemen, noting that the United States will continue its operations unless Houthi attacks on US forces and their impact on navigation in the Red Sea cease. He also emphasized that Washington is not seeking escalation, and that military operations will cease as soon as these attacks cease.
For his part, the Prime Minister stressed that de-escalation and dialogue are the most effective means of addressing crises in a sensitive and vital region like the Middle East, affirming that this approach represents Iraq’s firm position in dealing with regional challenges, and that Iraq will continue to act in accordance with this principle.
The two sides emphasized the importance of continuing security cooperation within the framework of the international coalition to defeat ISIS and discussed security developments in the region.
The Prime Minister reiterated Iraq’s commitment to protecting international coalition advisors, who are present in Iraq at the invitation of the Iraqi government to support efforts to combat ISIS. He also emphasized Iraq’s commitment to restricting the use of force to the state and promoting internal stability.
The two sides also affirmed their shared commitment to preventing the resurgence of terrorist threats and extremist ideologies, including ISIS, and to strengthening ongoing counterterrorism efforts and supporting regional security.
The two sides reviewed recent successes in targeting and killing senior ISIS leaders, stressing the importance of maintaining a strong and coordinated counterterrorism approach to prevent the group from rebuilding its capabilities.
The talks also touched on regional security dynamics, particularly the troubling situation in Syria. Both sides expressed their determination to prevent ISIS in Syria from posing any threat, given its ability to acquire new weapons and reorganize its ranks. This calls for a collective response from the international community to prevent any further escalation that threatens stability.
Both sides renewed their commitment to maintaining regional stability, while the US Secretary of Defense affirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s long-term security and stability.
At the conclusion of the call, the two sides stressed the importance of continuing dialogue and cooperation to advance the common interests between Iraq and the United States, and to work together to maintain peace and security in the region.
burathanews.com
