U.S. urges collaboration with Baghdad to quell attacks on forces

During a visit to Baghdad on Wednesday, US Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland declared the United States’ intent to partner with Iraq in curbing assaults on US personnel stationed in Iraq and Syria. The attacks, targeting both US and Iraqi facilities, have escalated since mid-October amid regional tensions fueled by the Gaza conflict.

Nuland, addressing reporters in Baghdad, emphasized that these assaults pose a threat not only to the United States but also to Iraqi sovereignty. Following her meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, Nuland highlighted the need for strengthened bilateral cooperation to address the security challenges, extending beyond Iraq to include interests in Syria.

“We, the Prime Minister, and the Iraqi government would much rather see the country’s security forces prepared to handle this security danger,” stated Nuland. The discussions focused on strategies to halt attacks, both originating from and targeting Iraq, involving joint efforts between the two nations.

Responding to the attacks, Washington conducted multiple strikes in Iraq and Syria. Since October 17, 102 attacks have occurred, reflecting the heightened tensions following the Israel-Hamas conflict. On December 8, the US embassy in Baghdad faced a missile attack without casualties, leading to the Iraqi government’s arrest of individuals linked to the assault, some having connections with security services.

Washington currently deploys 2,500 soldiers in Iraq and approximately 900 in Syria as part of the ongoing efforts against ISIS.