Iraq Signals Shift in US Relations Toward Economic Cooperation
(MENAFN) According to reports, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi stated that the country’s relationship with the United States is undergoing a structural transition, moving away from a military-focused framework toward what he described as a “comprehensive economic partnership.” The remarks come as the US-led coalition against Daesh (ISIS) approaches the conclusion of its operational mission in Iraq.
He indicated that future ties with Washington will be centered on economic collaboration rather than security coordination. “The relationship with the United States will transform from a military partnership to an economic partnership,”
Zaidi also argued that once American forces fully withdraw, there would no longer be justification for armed resistance inside Iraq. “After the withdrawal of all American forces, there will be no justification or need for any resistance in Iraq,”
The statements were made ahead of an expected visit by the Iraqi prime minister to the United States next month, where discussions are anticipated to focus on expanding bilateral economic cooperation.
Earlier agreements between Baghdad and Washington outlined a phased end to the international coalition’s mission against ISIS. The first phase, completed earlier this year, included ending the coalition’s combat role, withdrawing forces, transferring control of military facilities, and shifting toward bilateral security arrangements aimed at supporting Iraqi forces and maintaining pressure on remaining extremist elements.
The second phase of the agreement is set to continue until next September, during which coalition activities in Syria will be managed from positions inside Iraq.
In a related development, Zaidi noted that several armed groups within Iraq have begun surrendering their weapons to state authorities. Officials have also recently established a committee tasked with ensuring that all weapons are placed under exclusive government control.
These steps are part of a broader government strategy aimed at strengthening state security institutions, improving internal stability, and reducing risks linked to regional tensions.
He indicated that future ties with Washington will be centered on economic collaboration rather than security coordination. “The relationship with the United States will transform from a military partnership to an economic partnership,”
Zaidi also argued that once American forces fully withdraw, there would no longer be justification for armed resistance inside Iraq. “After the withdrawal of all American forces, there will be no justification or need for any resistance in Iraq,”
The statements were made ahead of an expected visit by the Iraqi prime minister to the United States next month, where discussions are anticipated to focus on expanding bilateral economic cooperation.
Earlier agreements between Baghdad and Washington outlined a phased end to the international coalition’s mission against ISIS. The first phase, completed earlier this year, included ending the coalition’s combat role, withdrawing forces, transferring control of military facilities, and shifting toward bilateral security arrangements aimed at supporting Iraqi forces and maintaining pressure on remaining extremist elements.
The second phase of the agreement is set to continue until next September, during which coalition activities in Syria will be managed from positions inside Iraq.
In a related development, Zaidi noted that several armed groups within Iraq have begun surrendering their weapons to state authorities. Officials have also recently established a committee tasked with ensuring that all weapons are placed under exclusive government control.
These steps are part of a broader government strategy aimed at strengthening state security institutions, improving internal stability, and reducing risks linked to regional tensions.
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