Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani to discuss several ongoing matters between the United States and Iraq. According to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the conversation focused on the progress of U.S. commercial agreements in Iraq.
During the call, Secretary Rubio congratulated Prime Minister al-Sudani on the resumption of oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline. He stated that this development will have benefits for Iraq, Türkiye, and American businesses.
Secretary Rubio also addressed concerns regarding Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq. He emphasized the need to disarm these groups, citing that they undermine Iraq’s sovereignty, threaten the safety of both Americans and Iraqis, and divert Iraqi resources to Iran.
“The Secretary reiterated the U.S. commitment to working closely with Iraqi partners to advance our shared interests: safeguarding Iraqi sovereignty, bolstering regional stability, and strengthening our economic ties,” according to the statement from the State Department.
