Exclusive: Islamic State still a threat in Iraq, US ambassador says

United States Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski speaks during an interview with Reuters at the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq March 23, 2024. REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani 

The Islamic State continues to be perceived as a threat in Iraq, according to United States Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski in an interview with Reuters. Despite assertions by some senior Iraqi politicians, including Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, that the group no longer poses a significant threat in Iraq and that the coalition’s presence is unnecessary, the U.S.-led military coalition remains committed to assisting Iraq in fully defeating the Islamic State.

Ambassador Romanowski emphasized that although the Islamic State’s presence has significantly diminished, their work in Iraq is not yet complete. This sentiment was reiterated following an attack claimed by the Islamic State’s Afghan branch, ISIS-K, at a rock concert near Moscow, resulting in numerous casualties.

The ongoing threat posed by the Islamic State extends beyond Iraq, with recent attacks in Afghanistan and Iran attributed to the group. Iraqi Prime Minister’s upcoming meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington is expected to address the future of the coalition, Iraqi financial reforms, and efforts to reduce Iraqi dependence on Iranian influence.

While the coalition primarily advises and assists Iraqi forces in combating the Islamic State, Western officials view its presence as a means to counter Iranian influence in the region. Ambassador Romanowski emphasized the importance of winding down the coalition’s mission in an orderly manner, contingent upon the capabilities of Iraqi security forces and the operational environment.

Beyond security concerns, U.S. efforts in Iraq also focus on economic development, particularly in reducing reliance on Iranian energy and improving the banking sector to meet global standards. This includes addressing issues of trust and transparency within Iraqi financial institutions, with efforts aimed at enhancing deposit security and compliance with international regulations.