Blinken's Surprise Visit to Iraq

Secretary of State Antony Blinken paid a surprise visit to Iraq on Sunday as part of his fast-paced regional tour. During his stay in Baghdad, Blinken held a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani that lasted over an hour. Additionally, he visited the US Embassy in Iraq, where a security briefing was provided regarding the potential threats to US facilities.

US officials have cautioned against third parties engaging in the Israel conflict. Following the Hamas attack on October 7, proxy groups supported by Iran have intensified their assaults targeting US soldiers in Iraq and Syria.

In a press statement following their meeting, Blinken conveyed that his discussion with the prime minister was fruitful and effective. He explicitly emphasized that any attacks on US personnel by militias backed by Iran are completely unacceptable.

Blinken restated that the United States is committed to taking necessary measures to safeguard our personnel and military installations.

Moreover, they explored strategies to prevent the escalation of the Gaza conflict beyond its current borders.

Ahead of his stop in Iraq, Blinken made stops in Israel, Jordan, the West Bank, and Cyprus. From Iraq he will travel on to Turkey.