Tom Barrack: Strong Kurdistan Region Government Is Essential for a Strong and Stable Iraq

ARK News.. U.S. Special Envoy for Iraq Tom Barrack has stressed that unity in forming a strong government in the Kurdistan Region is a key factor in ensuring a strong and stable Iraq.

In a post on his official X account on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Barrack said he had held a phone call with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani following the latter’s visit to Baghdad.

Barrack said that “unity of purpose in forming a strong government in the Kurdistan Region is an important and essential component of a strong and stable Iraq.”

On Monday, Barrack also highlighted the importance of bilateral talks, saying that direct dialogue between Baghdad and Erbil was the right way to resolve complex issues, including oil exports, salaries, and revenues.

He praised the efforts of the leaderships of both governments, noting that “Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani demonstrated that leadership today.” He reiterated Washington’s support for both sides, saying: “The United States stands with both sides as they work together to build a prosperous and sovereign Iraq.”

The statements came as the Kurdistan Region prime minister visited Baghdad and met with his federal counterpart. During the meeting, the two sides strongly condemned the attack on the Khor Mor gas field and stressed the need to ensure the continued payment of salaries to Kurdistan Region employees, accelerate the passage of an oil and gas law, and guarantee the Region a fair share of the federal budget.

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