Iraqi premier, US envoy discuss preventing regional escalation, call for dialogue to solve disputes

By Mohammad Sio

ISTANBUL (AA) – Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani discussed in Baghdad on Sunday with US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack efforts to prevent regional escalation and the importance of dialogue to resolve disputes.

The meeting addressed bilateral relations between Iraq and the US, as well as broader regional developments, including Iraq’s efforts to support stability in Syria and the region, Sudani’s office said in a statement.

On Friday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it has completed a 23-day mission to transfer more than 5,700 members of the ISIS (Daesh) terrorist group from detention facilities in northeastern Syria to Iraqi custody.

Both sides exchanged views on preventing escalation in the region and underscored the importance of resorting to dialogue and diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts, the statement said.

The talks also covered opportunities for economic cooperation and support for comprehensive development aimed at reinforcing long-term stability.

Sudani stressed the need to address deep-rooted problems through fundamental solutions and to prevent aggression and violations of the sovereignty of countries and peoples in the region.

Barrack, for his part, highlighted Iraq’s important role in helping resolve regional challenges, reduce tensions, support dialogue and combat terrorism, the statement said.

Sunday’s meeting came amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear program.

The US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, where the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and more fighter jets have already arrived, with the USS Gerald R. Ford on its way.