Saudi-Iraq Relations Improving With Abadi Govt in Baghdad - US Official

The relations between Saudi Arabia and Iraq have improved, aiding regional efforts to combat the Islamic State, Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications for US President Obama claimed.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Saudi Arabia’s relations with Iraq have improved dramatically, aiding regional efforts to combat the Islamic State, Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications Ben Rhodes told reporters in a conference call.

"[F]or many years, Saudi Arabia had very frosty relations with the [Nouri al-]Maliki-led government in Baghdad. Since Prime Minister [Haider al-]Abadi took office, you have seen much greater engagement between… Saudi Arabia and the government of Iraq," Rhodes said in the call on Wednesday afternoon.

The statements came in preparation for Saudi King Salman bin Abdelaziz’s first visit to Washington as his country’s monarch on Friday.

Rhodes said the Obama administration had welcomed the improving Saudi-Iraq relations.

"We believe that's constructive," he said. "It sends a message, again, of support for Iraq unity and efforts to bring back stability."

Rhodes told reporters that the United States wanted Saudi Arabia to increase its influence and support in Iraq in joint efforts to fight the Islamic State.

"Saudi Arabia has significant relationships in Iraq that can be utilized to support the ongoing effort against [the Islamic State]," he said.

Rhodes also noted the Saudi role could be especially constructive working with Sunni Arab tribes in Iraq’s Anbar Province.

"Saudi Arabia, I think, can be a constructive voice in encouraging cooperation across different Iraqi communities," he said.

Saudi leaders advised the United States against invading Iraq in 2003 and against setting up a Shi’a-dominated central government in Baghdad.