DUBAI, UAE - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, and the ongoing crisis in Syria.

The meeting, held in Baghdad, focused on strengthening cooperation between Iraq and the US and addressing the latest developments in the region. Discussions included the situation in Syria and the need for international efforts to support its stability.

Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to supporting Syria through this critical phase and urged friendly nations to assist Syrians in rebuilding their country and addressing challenges threatening civil peace. He emphasized the importance of inclusive governance in Syria, ensuring representation for all components of Syrian society.

The prime minister also called for concrete actions from those leading Syria’s transitional phase, adding that any violation of Syrian sovereignty constitutes a threat to regional security.

Blinken echoed Iraq’s stance, stressing the importance of respecting the choices of the Syrian people and forming an inclusive government that reflects Syria’s diversity. He highlighted Iraq’s pivotal role as a key regional partner and emphasized the US commitment to Iraq’s security and sovereignty through the Global Coalition.

The leaders also discussed the situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need to end the war and sustain a ceasefire in Lebanon.

During his visit, Blinken attended a military briefing at the US Embassy in Baghdad, led by Major General Kevin Leahy, Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force for Operation Inherent Resolve. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller and several embassy officials were also present.

The briefing highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Iraqi forces and the Global Coalition to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS) and secure Iraq’s borders.

Iraqi government spokesperson Bassim al-Awadi reiterated the country’s stance on the Syrian crisis, stating that Iraq has not intervened militarily in Syria or supported any specific groups or political entities.

“Our communication with the United States has been continuous since the start of the Syrian crisis,” Awadi said. “Secretary Blinken’s visit reaffirmed that Iraq’s security remains intact, and no breaches will be permitted.”

Awadi underscored Iraq’s readiness to confront any “terrorist” movements in cooperation with the Coalition. “We will not allow ISIS or any extremist organization to cross into Iraq,” he said.

Awadi also emphasized Iraq’s essential role in addressing regional issues. “The Iraqi perspective on developments in Syria cannot be overlooked, and Iraq has no unilateral agendas in Syria,” he said.