US Secretary of State makes surprise visit to Iraq

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani met with Secretary of State Blinken and the two are expected to discuss the risk of escalation in Israel's war with Hamas, the Prime Minister's office said.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Photo: SCMP

Mr Blinken's visit came after a brief stop in Cyprus to discuss a possible maritime aid route to Gaza and was not announced in advance for security reasons.

Since the Gaza conflict erupted, a series of rocket and drone attacks have targeted military bases housing US forces in Iraq.

“I reiterate that attacks or threats from Iranian-aligned militias are completely unacceptable,” Mr. Blinken said on Sunday.

“We will take every step necessary to protect our people,” Mr. Blinken added during the meeting with Mr. Sudani.

Figures released by the Pentagon on Friday showed that from October 17 to November 3, there were 17 attacks in Iraq and 12 in Syria.

About 2,500 US troops are deployed in Iraq, advising the Iraqi army in the fight against the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS).

Mr Sudani condemned the attacks and said investigations were underway to identify the perpetrators. The Iraqi prime minister has also repeatedly called for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Hoang Ton (according to SCMP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ngoai-truong-my-bat-ngo-tham-iraq-post271295.html