Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani on Sunday received US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack and discussed ways Baghdad can bolster support for stability in Damascus while strengthening its own stance in the region.
The visit comes amid post-election political wrangling to form a new Iraqi government and as the ruling factions discuss Mr Al Sudani's replacement - though he seeks a second term. Last month's parliamentary election saw Iran-aligned factions gain or strengthen their position within the political system. Baghdad has for years been balancing its ties to Tehran and Washington.
The meeting "reviewed mutual perspectives on preventing any further escalation in the region" by "supporting the diplomatic track to resolve disputes, and setting the region on a path of cooperation, economic growth, and long-term stability," a statement by Mr Al Sudani's said.
Mr Barrack emphasised the "constructive and essential role" that Iraq plays in achieving the "shared objectives," it added.
The visit comes days after an attack on the Khor Mor gasfield in the Kurdistan Region halted production and saw blackouts across Kurdish cities. The attack was blamed by Kurdish authorities on Iran-backed militia groups, though they denied any involvement. The US embassy called on Baghdad to hold the perpetrators accountable and said Washington was "prepared to lend support to efforts to protect this critical infrastructure."
The US envoy, who is also ambassador to Turkey, has been heavily involved in regional files beyond his mandate. Mr Barrack has been vocal about Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and the disarmament process under way as part of a fragile ceasefire with I
Continue Reading on The National UAE
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.