Carter makes surprise stop in Baghdad

23 July 2015, 1:44 pm

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US Defense Secretary Ash Carter arrives unannounced in Baghdad during his post-Iran deal mission to the region, in his first visit since taking office.

Carter is expected to hear the latest on the Iraqi army’s plan to recapture the key city of Ramadi from the Islamic State, but is unlikely to announce any major change in US strategy or increase in US troop levels.

In a brief stop at the Iraqi Counterterrorism Service Academy, Carter tells commanders: “Your forces have performed so very well, so very bravely. And I know that you have suffered great losses too, but I just wanted to tell you that it is very clear to us in Washington what a capable force this is. So it’s a privilege for us to be your partners.”

— AP