Iraqi PM discusses departure of troops with US delegation

A US delegation in Iraq met Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi and President Barham Salih to discuss relations and the future of 2,500 American soldiers based there to support the fight against ISIS.

Mr Al Kadhimi met the delegation led by US National Security Co-ordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk to discuss “coordination and co-operation in various fields”.

The meeting “emphasised implementing the outcome of the strategic dialogue between Iraq and the US, especially with regard to the withdrawal of combat troops from Iraq”, the Iraqi prime minister’s office said.

Mr McGurk also met Mr Salih and parliamentary Speaker Mohammed Al Halbousi.

Mr Salih told Mr McGurk that his country was “embarking on a balanced policy that will defuse tensions in the region”.

“Iraq’s distinguished geographical location represents a pivotal factor in facing challenges related to terrorism and enhancing stability,” he said.

Mr Al Halbousi said Washington must support Baghdad’s security and stability.

Mr McGurk expressed the US’s “continued support” to “work together for a strong, sovereign Iraq”.

The US delegation is the largest and most senior to visit the region since President Joe Biden took office in January.

There were three attacks on bases hosting US forces in the three days before the visit.

Two rockets hit an unoccupied area of the Ain Al Asad airbase in Anbar province on Tuesday “without causing damage or casualties”, the Iraqi Army said.

It followed similar strikes on airbases at Baghdad airport and Balad, none of which have been claimed.