Obama to Saudis, Gulf allies: Boost aid to Iraq

Associated Press

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

With fresh friction wearing on an old alliance, President Barack Obama pressed Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf nations Wednesday to step up efforts to defeat the Islamic State group and help rebuild war-torn Iraq.

Obama huddled privately with Saudi King Salman at Erga Palace as Defense Secretary Ash Carter appealed to other Gulf nations for more economic and political support for Iraq, echoing themes Obama planned to emphasize personally in talks with Gulf leaders at a regional summit. In addition to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar are participating.

The president’s visit came at a difficult time for such requests. U.S. relations with Gulf allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, are under new strains due to differences over Iran, the conflicts in Syria and Yemen, and Obama’s public complaints that allies not carrying their weight.

Carter asked the Gulf countries to help with the reconstruction of the cities of Ramadi and Hit as well as Anbar province, areas that have been won back from IS militants but were left in near-shambles.

He said helping the Iraqi people go home and rebuild their lives would lead to a more lasting victory and promote a more-inclusive government.