Sudani affirms protection for military and diplomatic personnel

Iraqi Prime Minister receives calls from U.S. Secretaries of State and Defense

BAGHDAD, October 24 — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani received two phone calls on Monday from the U.S. Secretaries of State and Defense, during which he reiterated Iraq’s commitment to protecting military advisors and diplomatic missions operating in the country.

Sudani’s office issued a statement, which read:

On Monday evening, Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa’ Al-Sudani received a phone call from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The call involved discussions on  escalating developments in the Gaza Strip, the worsening humanitarian situation for the Palestinian people, and the importance of coordination to ensure continuous and secure access to food, water, medical care, and other necessary humanitarian aid to meet the needs of the local population.

The call also recognized Iraq’s efforts in providing humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and emphasized the necessity of joint coordination efforts to ensure stability in the region and prevent the expansion of conflict.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani and U.S. Secretary of State Blinken reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to continue enhancing their partnership in accordance with the principles outlined in the Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States.

Additionally, Prime Minister Al-Sudani received another call from U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, during which they discussed the presence of military advisors and international coalition teams combating terrorism in Iraq, as well as supporting Iraqi security forces with advice and training. They emphasized the importance of sustaining the victory over ISIS.

The call also reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to protect military advisors and diplomatic missions operating in the country.