Fuad Hussein, Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, met with U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack in Baghdad, with both sides addressing bilateral relations, government formation, and regional developments, including Syria and Iran.

The Iraqi foreign ministry said in a statement on Monday that both parties stressed the importance of ongoing coordination and cooperation at various stages, particularly in the area of counter-terrorism.

Iraq’s Government Formation and International Support Discussed

Both sides discussed the formation of the new cabinet following the 2025 election amid ongoing talks between the political parties. Hussein said the process is “an internal matter, taking into account the views of international partners, and especially the United States, as an ally, and in accordance with the need of any new Iraqi government to interact positively with the policies of other countries.”

He highlighted the need for ongoing communication until the government is formed.

Progress in Counter-Terrorism and Prison Transfers

Regarding security situations and the recent transfer of ISIS prisoners from Syria to the country, Barrack expressed “its appreciation for the important step taken by the Iraqi government to transfer ISIS elements from detention centers abroad to Iraqi prisons, in the framework of strengthening Iraq's sovereignty and fulfilling its legal responsibilities.”

The Foreign Minister stated that Iraq is working with several countries to repatriate citizens involved in terrorism cases and is considering Turkish approval for granting citizenship to some of these individuals.

Support for Syrian Stability Highlighted

Hussein and Barrack underlined their support for the agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Damascus, reached after the January clashes and tensions, under which the political and military integration commenced.

They further underscored the importance of implementing the agreement to enhance security and stability in Syria.

US-Iran Tensions and Iraq’s Call for Peaceful Negotiations

On the persistent strain in the relationship between the United States and Iran over the nuclear program, Hussein asserted “the danger of any potential war and its reflections on the region.”

He underscores Iraq's support for the peaceful approach and strongly endorses the upcoming negotiation round scheduled to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, next Thursday.