Iraq’s Prime Minister Al-Sudani and US Defense Secretary Hegseth discussed military operations in Yemen, regional security, and the need for effective dialogue to handle crises. They emphasized their strategic partnership and commitment to stability, while stressing the importance of countering ISIS and preventing escalation in Syria.
On Sunday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani held a phone call with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss key regional security developments, focusing primarily on military operations in Yemen and the troubling circumstances in Syria. Al-Sudani’s media office reported that both leaders emphasized their strategic partnership, which they consider vital for sustaining regional stability and security.
During the call, Hegseth briefed Al-Sudani on the situation in Yemen. He indicated that US military actions will persist unless Houthi attacks on US forces and disturbances in Red Sea shipping are halted. “The United States will continue to take action to protect our forces and safeguard vital shipping lanes,” Hegseth asserted, while also expressing that the US does not wish to escalate tensions.
Al-Sudani highlighted that de-escalation and diplomacy are crucial for resolving ongoing crises in the Middle East. He reiterated Iraq’s commitment to maintaining national stability through dialogue, stating, “We must focus on dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions. Violence will only lead to more instability.”
Concerning the Syrian conflict, both leaders agreed on the necessity of preventing ISIS from re-establishing its power. They voiced concerns over the group’s new weapon acquisitions and reorganization efforts and highlighted that a coordinated international response is imperative to mitigate potential escalations that could jeopardize regional stability.
The dialogue occurred shortly after Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani’s visit to Baghdad, where he met with Al-Sudani and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad al-Halbousi, as well as participating in a press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.
The recent discussions between Iraq’s Prime Minister and US Defense Secretary underscore the importance of their strategic partnership, particularly concerning military operations in Yemen and security threats from ISIS. Both leaders advocate for dialogue and de-escalation, viewing collaboration as key to ensuring regional stability. With ongoing concerns about Houthi actions and ISIS efforts, a unified international response is deemed essential to maintain peace.
Original Source: shafaq.com
