Baghdad: The US said Sunday that an independent Iraqi government is essential to keeping the country insulated from regional tensions, reaffirming Washington's support for Iraq's sovereignty and political stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, the US Embassy in Baghdad posted a statement on the US social media company X, highlighting a meeting with Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) leader Mesud Barzani in the Kurdish Regional Government in northern Iraq. The discussions involved Charge d'Affaires Joshua Harris and Consul General Wendy Green, who reiterated the US's commitment to fostering a 'sovereign, stable, and prosperous Iraq' along with a robust partnership with the Kurdish Region.
The statement underlined that this partnership is a component of the broader US-Iraq relationship, which is seen as providing 'concrete benefits for Americans and Iraqis alike.' Harris stressed that any Iraqi government must prioritize national interests and maintain full independence to ensure its sovereignty and shield the country from regional turbulence while maximizing the potential of its partnership with the United States.
In the discussions, both parties also exchanged perspectives on Iraq's political scenario, welcomed ongoing consultations in Baghdad, and supported initiatives to establish an inclusive political framework for all Iraqis. The embassy noted that such efforts would 'reinforce stability' and facilitate an 'effective U.S.-Iraq partnership.'
Tensions have emerged within a coalition of Shiite parties supporting former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. The Coordination Framework has nominated Maliki as Iraq's new prime minister, a move opposed by the US, with President Donald Trump threatening to withdraw support if Maliki returns to power. Maliki's previous tenure from 2006 to 2014 was characterized by significant security challenges, notably the rise of the ISIS terror group, which occupied large parts of Iraq until its defeat was declared in 2017.
Under Iraq's political system, the presidency is held by a Kurd, the prime minister is a Shiite, and the speaker of parliament is a Sunni. Parliament is anticipated to convene soon after numerous delays to elect a president amid ongoing disputes between the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. The elected president will be responsible for appointing the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc to form a government within 15 days.