BAGHDAD — U.S. Special Presidential Envoy to Iraq and Syria Tom Barrack met with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in Baghdad on June 15, 2026. The discussions focused on U.S.-Iraq security cooperation, economic partnerships, and the planned September 2026 conclusion of the U.S.-led anti-ISIS coalition mission in Iraq.

Barrack also met with Chargé d'Affaires Joshua Harris at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad on June 15, 2026. The U.S. Department of State stated on June 15 that President Trump looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister al-Zaidi to the White House in mid-July 2026.

"I will meet with Prime Minister Al-Zaidi to convey President Trump's support for his government, and discuss our partnership on a new direction for a strong and mutually beneficial U.S.-Iraq relationship," Barrack said.

During their meeting, Barrack and Zaidi discussed Iraqi plans for the disarmament and disbandment of armed groups operating outside state authority. Iran-backed militias have operated in Iraq since the 2003 U.S. invasion. The U.S.-led anti-ISIS coalition has concluded its operations in Syria.

Barrack and Zaidi also acknowledged the finalization of an operating license for Starlink to provide internet services in Iraq. Economic discussions included Iraq launching negotiations with Chevron to develop the West Qurna-2 and Nasiriyah oil fields. U.S. companies HKN, Western Zagros, and Hunt will resume operations in Iraq with security guarantees.

Iraq and the U.S. are advancing a memorandum of understanding with TI Capital to rehabilitate the Kirkuk-Baniyas Pipeline. They also discussed an Excelerate Energy project to develop an integrated liquefied natural gas import terminal at Khor Zubair. Pearl Petroleum proposed a $10.2 billion capital investment plan spanning 2026 to 2035 to increase natural gas production in the Kurdistan Region.

Barrack also met with Kurdistan Regional Government President Nechirvan Barzani, KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, and Masoud Barzani. He met with Patriotic Union of Kurdistan leaders Bafel Talibani and Qubad Talibani in Sulimaniyeh.

No independent assessment of Tom Barrack’s claims was available.