US stresses independent Iraqi government to curb regional tensions

The United States has declared that maintaining an independent government in Iraq is crucial for shielding the country from escalating regional tensions. In a statement following a meeting in northern Iraq, the US Embassy in Baghdad emphasized that sovereignty and political stability are central to an effective partnership between the two nations. The diplomatic message was delivered to Masoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), by US Chargé d'Affaires Joshua Harris and Consul General Wendy Green, who reaffirmed Washington's commitment to a "sovereign, stable, and prosperous Iraq."

Core US position on Iraqi sovereignty

The embassy's statement conveyed a clear diplomatic principle from Washington. Harris stressed that "Any Iraqi government must remain fully independent and focused on advancing the national interests of all Iraqis." The statement further argued that such independence is the only way for Iraq to "effectively safeguard its sovereignty, remain insulated from regional tensions, and fully realize the potential of a mutually advantageous partnership with the United States." This emphasis on an Iraq-first policy serves as a warning against excessive external influence from other regional powers in Baghdad's political affairs.

Support for inclusive politics and Kurdish partnership

Beyond the sovereignty message, the discussions also covered Iraq's internal political landscape. Both sides expressed support for ongoing consultations in Baghdad aimed at shaping an inclusive political framework that represents all Iraqi communities. The US diplomats underscored that such inclusivity would reinforce national stability and enable a more effective bilateral partnership. The meeting also highlighted the enduring US commitment to a strong relationship with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), describing it as an integral part of the broader US-Iraq relationship that delivers concrete benefits.

Context of a contentious government formation

This high-level US engagement occurs against a backdrop of significant political fragmentation in Iraq. Deep divisions have emerged within the Shiite Coordination Framework, which has nominated former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki for the premiership—a move opposed by the US, with President Donald Trump threatening to withdraw support if Maliki returns to power. Concurrently, delays persist in parliament's election of a national president, a role reserved for a Kurd, due to disagreements between the KDP and the rival Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The formation of an independent, inclusive government that can navigate these sectarian and ethnic divides remains a critical and unresolved challenge.