CNN
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US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin mentioned US troops are “ready to remain in Iraq” in his remarks throughout an unannounced trip to Baghdad on Tuesday, in accordance to the US press pool touring with him.
Austin, the highest-ranking Cabinet official to go to the nation for the reason that begin of the Biden administration, in accordance to the press pool, mentioned in an announcement that he’s in Iraq to “reaffirm the US-Iraq strategic partnership as we move toward a more secure, stable and sovereign Iraq.”
“Now looking forward, US forces are ready to remain in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq,” Austin mentioned. “And these forces are operating in a non combat, advise assist and enable role to support the Iraqi led fight against terrorism. This is a critical mission. And we’re proud to support our Iraqi partners.”
He added, “The United States will continue to strengthen and broaden our partnerships in support of Iraqi security, stability and sovereignty.”
Austin met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and is anticipated to meet different senior officers whereas he’s within the nation. The assembly with the Iraqi prime minister was not on digital camera, in accordance to the pool touring with the secretary.
After his go to to Baghdad, Austin will return to Amman, Jordan, the place he began his trip to the Middle East on Sunday.
This story has been up to date with further particulars.