RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — With fresh friction wearing on an old alliance, President Barack Obama pressed Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf nations on Wednesday to increase efforts to defeat the Islamic State terrorist 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. Kuwait, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar also are participating with Saudi Arabia.
Obama’s visit came at a difficult time for such requests. U.S. relations with Gulf allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, are under new strains because of differences over Iran, the conflicts in Syria and Yemen, and Obama’s public complaints that allies are 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 Islamic State terrorists 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.
A senior defense official said the defense chiefs had a robust discussion but came to no solid agreements on the increased aid. Still, the Gulf nations appear to be willing to consider doing more, said the official, who briefed reporters but was not authorized to be quoted by name.
Before ramping up assistance, Sunni leaders have been waiting to see more political improvements in Baghdad, where a political crisis has complicated efforts to focus on the Islamic State, and for greater participation and aid for the Sunni population.
