In a significant meeting at the White House on [insert date], President Joe Biden welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, highlighting the profound partnership between the United States and Iraq and addressing the recent escalating tensions in the Middle East.
An Unprecedented Attack and a United Defense
Opening the meeting, President Biden did not hesitate to address the grave situation that unfolded in the Middle East over the past weekend. In his words,
“Iran launched an unprecedented aerial attack against Israel, and we mounted an unprecedented military effort to defend Israel.”
This statement underscored the U.S.’s ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, emphasizing the substantial efforts taken in collaboration with partners to counteract the attack successfully. Additionally, President Biden reiterated the United States’ dedication to achieving a ceasefire, prioritizing the return of hostages, and ensuring the conflict does not escalate further.
A Strategic Partnership with Iraq
The discussion also centered on the critical partnership between Iraq and the United States, focusing on a decade of cooperative efforts, particularly in the defeat of ISIS. President Biden expressed gratitude toward Prime Minister al-Sudani for his dedication to enhancing Iraq’s economic resilience and energy independence, goals that align with U.S. interests in supporting Iraq’s sovereignty and stability.
Moreover, President Biden affirmed,
“Our partnership is pivotal for our nations, for the Middle East, and, I believe, for the world.”
Prime Minister al-Sudani’s Vision for a Comprehensive Partnership
Prime Minister al-Sudani acknowledged the sensitivity of the timing of his visit, emphasizing the significance of their meeting amidst complex global and regional dynamics. Outlining the aspirations for the bilateral relationship, al-Sudani stated the goal to transition from a military-security base to a “comprehensive economic, political, environmental, educational, and security partnership” as per the Strategic Framework Agreement.
He lauded the shared victories against ISIS, highlighting these achievements as a testament to the enduring cooperation between Iraq and the international community. Prime Minister al-Sudani also outlined his government’s commitment to moving forward based on the Strategic Framework Agreement, aiming for a sustainable partnership benefitting both nations.
A Call for Humanity and International Law Compliance
Reflecting on the broader regional context, Prime Minister al-Sudani voiced concerns over the human cost of ongoing conflicts in the region. He emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and norms, particularly in protecting civilians and rejecting aggression. His plea for restraint and a concerted effort to halt conflict expansion underscores Iraq’s role as a mediator and its commitment to regional stability and peace.
Conclusion
The meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani at the White House marks a critical juncture in U.S.-Iraq relations. As both leaders underscored their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership, the dialogue also reflected a unified stance against recent escalations in the Middle East, showcasing a shared commitment to security, stability, and prosperity in the region.
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This meeting took place at 12:19 P.M. EDT, solidifying the importance of U.S.-Iraq relations in addressing immediate regional challenges and laying the groundwork for a comprehensive partnership.