French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s steadfast commitment to assist Iraq in its battle against ISIS during a telephonic conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. The commitment was confirmed by the Elysée Palace on Wednesday, shortly after the news of the death of three French soldiers in August emerged.
In the conversation, Macron emphasized France’s unwavering dedication within the international coalition framework, alongside the Iraqi government, the Kurdistan Regional Government, and the Syrian Democratic Forces. The President also pledged ongoing humanitarian support, particularly for areas liberated from ISIS control, according to the French Presidency.
Meanwhile, the media office of the Iraqi Prime Minister released a statement mentioning that Al-Sudani received a phone call from President Macron. The leaders discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations and the implementation of the strategic partnership agreement signed between the two countries. They also focused on strengthening ties across various fields, including economics, culture, security, and military. Notably, they deliberated on a deal concerning the purchase of radars from the French company Thales, approved by the Iraqi Cabinet, which aims to improve Iraq’s control over its airspace.
The statement also conveyed that the Iraqi Prime Minister expressed his condolences to Macron for the loss of a French soldier involved in an operation against ISIS, in which French military advisors participated. The conversation touched upon the preparations for the upcoming “Baghdad-2023” conference aimed at economic integration and regional cooperation. It also discussed Macron’s upcoming official visit to Baghdad.
The phone call comes within hours after the declaration of the death of a member of the French special forces in an operation against jihadist movements in support of the Iraqi army. Four other French soldiers were injured during the operation.
Previously, two other French soldiers were killed under different circumstances in August. This conversation highlights the high-stakes engagement both countries have in the global fight against terrorism, at a time when France’s military involvement in the region has faced fatalities. It solidifies the nations’ resolve to further bolster strategic relations in diverse sectors and underlines the necessity for international cooperation in the ongoing war against extremist elements like ISIS.
