Baghdad, Washington review counterterrorism cooperation, regional developments Photo

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq Fuad Hussein held talks in Baghdad with US Special Envoy Tom Barrack, focusing on bilateral ties and regional security developments.

According to a statement released after the meeting, the two sides discussed coordination in the fight against terrorism and ongoing efforts to counter remnants of the extremist group known as ISIL, Caliber.Az reports. 

US officials expressed satisfaction with Baghdad’s recent decision to transfer captured ISIL members to Iraqi prisons, describing it as a step toward strengthening national jurisdiction and accountability.

The discussions also covered broader regional dynamics, including agreements between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as well as ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States. Both sides reviewed the potential implications of these developments for Iraq’s security and political landscape.

Particular attention was paid to the formation of a new Iraqi government. Hussein emphasised that government formation is an internal matter for Iraq, while noting that Baghdad remains mindful of the views of its international partners — especially the United States, which he described as a key ally.

By Sabina Mammadli