Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani emphasized the need for a clear U.S. stance on the aggression of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. A statement from the Prime Minister's office indicated that al-Sudani "received U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken today, Tuesday, on the sidelines of their participation in the emergency humanitarian response conference in Gaza, hosted by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan."
The statement added that "the meeting reviewed bilateral relations and the outcomes of al-Sudani's recent visit to the United States, as well as the overall situation in the region and the ongoing repercussions of the aggression on Gaza. He reiterated Iraq's support for any initiative aimed at achieving a ceasefire and facilitating the entry of aid for the suffering Palestinian people in Gaza."
Al-Sudani highlighted "the need for a clear U.S. position on Netanyahu's government's aggression," noting the overall weakness of the international stance regarding the continued tragedy, mentioning that the number of victims and the extent of destruction cannot be ignored, alongside ongoing aggressive threats against Lebanon, which threaten to widen the conflict in the region.
He also clarified "the dangers of the continued aggression in Gaza and its threat to regional and international stability, stating that it would serve as a new pretext for escalating extremism in the region. He argued that the international community must bear its responsibilities in light of the scene of genocide being committed by the occupation authorities, which has led to the displacement of 80% of the population of the Gaza Strip, leaving them homeless and devoid of medical, humanitarian, and essential services in the worst possible catastrophic conditions."
In response, according to the statement, Blinken "expressed the U.S. administration’s appreciation for Iraq's steps supporting lasting stability in the region and providing assistance that alleviates the difficult humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip," emphasizing "the importance of working towards a ceasefire." Additionally, Blinken conveyed to al-Sudani "President Joe Biden's appreciation for Iraq’s support and its role in regional and international peace efforts."
