Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein shared details of the high-level talks held with the US during Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's visit to Washington. Hussein announced that economic cooperation and security coordination were at the center of the discussions.
Hussein noted that US President Donald Trump reiterated his support for the current Iraqi government, and stated that this political backing would be reinforced by concrete agreements with American companies in key sectors such as energy, oil, natural gas and electricity. He said that various deals are expected to be finalized.
Security: A Prerequisite for Investment
Hussein emphasized that Iraq's strategy is to transform diplomatic relations into long-term economic partnerships and to provide the security necessary for sustainable foreign investment. He noted that economic development and national security are mutually reinforcing priorities.
Drawing attention to the problem posed by weapons outside state authority, the minister reiterated the Iraqi government's stance that all arms must be under state control. He argued that security, as Prime Minister al-Zaidi also stressed, is the fundamental prerequisite for a stable environment in which international companies can operate safely and for lasting investment.
Regional Risks and the Strait of Hormuz Threat
Warning that Iraq's economic future depends on regional developments, Hussein said that an expansion of conflict would have serious consequences. Pointing specifically to the Strait of Hormuz, he stressed that Iraq's oil exports depend on passage through this strategic waterway. He stated that any disruption there could halt crude oil exports and trigger a severe economic crisis.
Kirkuk-Baniyas Pipeline and the Financing Hurdle
Hussein announced that the Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline project, one of Iraq's economic goals, was raised during talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara. He said that Syrian officials showed interest in the project, but that significant financial resources are needed for construction to proceed. He added that the pipeline would make a strategic contribution to regional energy infrastructure, but that financing remains the main obstacle.
US Troop Withdrawal Date Clear: September 2026
Shedding light on a critical issue in Iraq-US relations, Hussein confirmed that Baghdad and Washington remain committed to the agreed timeline for the withdrawal of American forces from Iraq and the Kurdistan Region by the end of September 2026. The minister stated that this timeline is one of the Iraqi government's key objectives, and that the agreement remains in effect despite regional tensions.
Hussein's remarks reflect Iraq's effort to manage its relationship with the US within a single strategy that integrates political support, economic partnership, and security policy. As Baghdad pursues major energy deals, its ability to maintain internal stability and manage external uncertainties in a fragile regional environment will determine the success of this strategy.
