U.S. and Iraqi officials are currently meeting at the Pentagon to discuss the transition of the global coalition against the Islamic State in Iraq to an enduring bilateral security partnership. The Joint Security Cooperation Dialogue meetings are a continuation of the work of the Higher Military Commission, which stemmed from a meeting between President Joe Biden and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani in April. This dialogue is a reflection of both nations’ commitment to strengthening their bilateral security relationship, especially as they approach the 10-year anniversary of the Global Coalition’s military mission in Iraq.
The U.S. delegation at the talks includes representatives from U.S. Central Command, the Joint Staff, State Department, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, and the National Security Council. On the other hand, the Iraqi delegation consists of participants from Iraq’s Ministry of Defense, armed forces, Counterterrorism Service, and the Kurdish Peshmerga. The discussions will focus on the capabilities of Iraqi security forces in addressing the ISIS threat and recommendations from the Higher Military Commission. The goal is to plan for the future of the coalition and enhance bilateral security cooperation between the U.S. and Iraq.
In addition to the meetings with Iraqi officials, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III also engaged in discussions with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant as Israel launched attacks on Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen. The Houthis had previously attacked Tel Aviv, resulting in the death of an Israeli civilian and injuries to others. Secretary Austin acknowledged Israel’s actions as a response to months of Houthi attacks and reiterated the United States’ unwavering commitment to Israeli security and right to self-defense. The U.S. had no involvement in the Israeli operation, as U.S. forces in the region were not part of the attack.
Overall, the discussions at the Pentagon between U.S. and Iraqi officials aim to transition the global coalition against the Islamic State in Iraq to a long-term bilateral security partnership. The focus is on strengthening the relationship between the two nations and addressing the ongoing ISIS threat. Additionally, Secretary Austin’s conversations with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant underscore the United States’ support for Israel’s right to defend itself against external threats. These diplomatic efforts reflect the commitment of the U.S. to maintaining security and stability in the region through partnerships with key allies.
