Iraqi PM Al-Sudani Confirms Efforts to Facilitate Iran-US Dialogue
Baghdad – Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al-Sudani announced on Tuesday his government’s active engagement with both Tehran and Washington to pave the way for a crucial dialogue between Iran and the United States in Baghdad. The prime minister underscored the importance of supporting efforts to consolidate stability and security across the region, identifying Iraq as a pivotal player in fostering diplomatic solutions amidst increasing global uncertainties.
Regional Stability and Diplomatic Overtures
Speaking to ambassadors from European Union member states in Iraq, Al-Sudani highlighted Baghdad’s role in addressing escalating global instability. “The world today faces increasing instability and the erosion of the rules-based international system established after World War II,” he observed, cautioning against “the dangerous return of the logic of force, wars, and the imposition of one party’s will on others.” Against this backdrop, Iraq is positioning itself as a key facilitator for de-escalation, actively working to host talks between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the US government.
Reinforcing Iraq’s Democratic Foundations
The Prime Minister also detailed significant strides in Iraq’s domestic political landscape and governance. He described the upcoming 2025 elections as a “milestone in Iraq’s political history” due to their anticipated integrity, transparency, smooth process, and high public participation. This, he noted, signals a renewed public trust in the democratic process and the peaceful transfer of power. Over the past three years, Al-Sudani’s government has implemented substantial structural reforms across various sectors, successfully attracting both Arab and foreign investments and cultivating a conducive environment for both domestic and international private sectors. On internal security, he noted a national consensus on confining arms exclusively to state control, indicating a positive evolution in discussions regarding its implementation. He emphasized the current priority is to prevent institutional regression in complex regional and international conditions, alluding to the significant role his government’s coalition, backed by public mandate, would play in the future political landscape.
Evolving International Partnerships and Security Focus
Al-Sudani further updated the EU diplomats on Iraq’s evolving security partnerships. He reported significant progress in relations with the international coalition, including the complete handover of the Ain al-Asad base to Iraqi control and a substantial reduction in the number of coalition advisors in Baghdad. The mission at the Harir base in Erbil is also slated for complete conclusion by September 2026. Despite these changes, Iraq remains a committed partner in the international coalition against ISIS. The Prime Minister expressed ongoing concerns regarding instability in Syria and the potential for an increased presence of ISIS elements and other extremist groups, particularly those held in prisons, necessitating continued coordination.
Syria’s Stability and Regional Implications
Emphasizing Syria’s pivotal role in regional security, Al-Sudani stressed the imperative of a “transparent and inclusive political process in Syria that encompasses all groups.” He called for concrete, practical steps to reassure all components of Syrian society through the rejection of terrorism and extremism, alongside respect for human rights. “Iraq views Syria’s stability as a crucial national and regional priority,” he stated, asserting that “a stable and unified Syria, where all its components live in peace and coexistence, is a fundamental guarantee for regional security.” He affirmed Iraq’s robust security capabilities and secured borders, underscoring the need for collective responsibility and genuine international cooperation for Syria’s lasting stability.
Iraq’s Stance on Broader Regional Conflicts
Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s firm and clear stance on broader regional conflicts. He called for “an immediate cessation of bloodshed in Gaza, an end to violations in Lebanon, and an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people.” This comprehensive diplomatic outlook underscores Iraq’s commitment to playing a constructive role in promoting peace and stability across the wider Middle East.
