US and Iraq explore new strategic relationship beyond Defeat-ISIS efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a significant step toward a deeper and broader partnership, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit Muhammad al-Abassi convened to discuss the evolution of US-Iraq joint security cooperation. The meeting, held at the Pentagon, marked a turning point in the diplomatic and military relationship between the two nations, extending beyond their joint efforts to defeat ISIS.

Al-Abassi was accompanied by a delegation that included key figures such as head of the counter-terrorism apparatus Abdul Wahhab al-Saadi, Chief of Staff of the Army Abd al-Amir Rashid Yarallah, Deputy Commander of Joint Operations Qais al-Muhammadawi, and several advisors and officers.

Since the inception of the global coalition to combat the Islamic State (ISIS), over 50,000 square kilometers of territory have been reclaimed, and more than 4.5 million Iraqis have been liberated from the grip of the terror group. Austin emphasized this achievement, stating, “The United States stands with the people of Iraq as you build your secure and sovereign and economically vibrant nation.” While the US military’s presence in Iraq initially aimed at supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against ISIS, the partnership has grown and diversified in the years since.

The discussion highlighted the transformation of the US-Iraq relationship as Iraqi security forces gain enhanced capabilities and confidence. This development signifies an advancement beyond the July 2021 conclusion of US forces’ combat role in Iraq. The bilateral dialogue underscores a commitment to forging an enduring defense relationship, solidifying a strategic partnership based on mutual interests and shared objectives.

Dana Stroul, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, described the newly envisaged relationship as a “360-degree relationship”, encompassing a wide spectrum of collaborative endeavors between the two nations. Stroul affirmed that this comprehensive partnership seeks to establish a framework for lasting defense cooperation, encompassing activities like joint exercises, military training, and exchange programs.

The dialogue, led by US Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander, extends beyond military affairs, reflecting a desire to broaden cooperation into economic ties, climate change initiatives, and diplomatic engagement. Alina Romanowski, the US Ambassador to Iraq, emphasized that Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani is receptive to these multifaceted cooperation efforts, aligning with his vision of stability, sovereignty, and security for Iraq. The partnership also serves as a means to reintegrate Iraq into the regional arena.

While the ISIS caliphate was officially dismantled in 2019, the threat of its ideology persists, prompting continued vigilance. Army Maj. Gen. Matt McFarlane, the commander of Combined Joint Operation Inherent Resolve, noted the sustained threat posed by remaining ISIS adherents, who seek to rebuild their capacity and carry out attacks in Iraq and Syria. Despite this, Iraqi forces have made significant strides, evidenced by a 64% reduction in ISIS attacks in Iraq this year.