Blinken's Unannounced Visit to Iraq: Discussing Israel-Hamas Conflict and Humanitarian Pauses

Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani in Baghdad to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict and the need to prevent its spread, as well as the humanitarian situation in Gaza. They also discussed the importance of preventing the forced displacement of Palestinians outside of Gaza. Secretary Blinken urged the Prime Minister to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on U.S. personnel in Iraq and emphasized the U.S.' commitment to defending its interests and personnel.