FM Discusses Regional Developments and Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation with US Assistant Secretary of State

H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Fuad Hussein, met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, with H.E. US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Mr Donald Blome, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed security developments in the Middle East and their repercussions for the countries of the region. They also discussed the new sanctions that the US Administration intends to impose on Iran and their potential repercussions for the countries of the region, including Iraq.

The Minister noted that Iraq has been among the countries most affected by tensions and conflicts between the United States and Iran, and the accompanying security and economic repercussions, stressing the importance of sparing Iraq and the region further repercussions resulting from escalating tensions.

The Minister affirmed Iraq’s continued support for international efforts aimed at reaching an understanding between the United States and Iran, in a manner that contributes to ensuring the security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, commending the diplomatic efforts undertaken by Pakistan, Qatar and the United States in this regard.

The meeting also addressed the course of security and military cooperation between the two countries and the transition to a subsequent phase focused on advisory support, training and intelligence cooperation, alongside the completion of procedures to conclude the mission of the international coalition in Iraq. The two sides stressed the importance of continuing the partnership in combating terrorism and strengthening Iraq’s capabilities in this field.

On the economic front, the Minister referred to his upcoming visit to Washington at the end of this month to continue discussions on developing cooperation between the two countries in the political, security and economic fields.

The Minister also stressed the importance of continued cooperation between the Central Bank of Iraq and the US Department of the Treasury in combating money laundering and strengthening compliance with international banking standards.