[52191] Sensitive security talks between the Iraqi Prime Minister-designate and the US Secretary of Defense
[52191] Sensitive security talks between the Iraqi Prime Minister-designate and the US Secretary of Defense
The Prime Minister-designate of Iraq, Ali Falah al-Zaidi, held talks with the US Secretary of Defense against the backdrop of US demands for action against militias.
Tension and diplomacy: The Baghdad-Washington axis
On May 6, 2026, it was reported that the Prime Minister-designate of Iraq, Ali Falah al-Zaidi, held an official phone call with the US Secretary of Defense. According to reports by Iraqi News Agency (INA) and Al-Sabah Iraqi Newspaper, the parties discussed strengthening bilateral relations and security cooperation under the "Strategic Framework Agreement" between the countries. The sources noted that the conversation emphasized "renewing cooperation in the field of training" to improve the capabilities of the Iraqi armed forces.
At the same time, a critical tone from Washington is evident. According to reports by Al Jazeera based on a source in the US State Department, the US expects "actions from the Iraqi leadership" rather than just statements. This official described the situation as one where "there is currently an unclear dividing line between the Iraqi state and the militias" (according to CNN report as cited by AlJazeera).
In reports provided by Rudaw Arabic and Al-Mamlaka Channel, it was noted that the US official emphasized the need to take "tough steps to expel the militias" affiliated with Iran and cut off support for them. Sources noted that during the war with Iran, more than 600 attacks were carried out against US facilities in Iraq, which highlights the sensitivity of the issue for the White House.
While the Iraqi state media presents the conversation as a continuation of strategic relations, Western and regional reports focus on the American pressure on Baghdad to act against Iranian influences within the country.