ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – The Tom Barrack President Barzani meeting in Pirmam highlighted Washington’s praise for Kurdish leadership and ongoing discussions over Iraq’s next prime minister.
On Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, President Masoud Barzani received Tom Barrack, the US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria, for high-level talks on Iraq’s government formation process. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also attended the meeting.
According to a statement from Barzani Headquarters, President Barzani stressed that Iraq’s Coordination Framework holds responsibility for nominating a candidate for prime minister. However, he emphasized that any future premier must respect the constitution and uphold the principles of partnership, balance, and consensus.
Barrack publicly praised President Barzani’s stance. In a post on the social media platform X, he described Barzani’s remarks as “astonishing wisdom from a legendary leader.” The Tom Barrack President Barzani meeting therefore underscored US appreciation for Barzani’s role in shaping Iraq’s political direction.
President Barzani previously stated that national unity must guide the selection of Iraq’s prime minister. He called for a leader who reflects the will of Iraq’s diverse components and strengthens institutional stability.
The meeting occurred as Shiite political factions within the Coordination Framework continue to face internal disagreements. More than four months after Iraq’s parliamentary elections, they have yet to agree on a single nominee.
Barrack also praised President Barzani’s longstanding efforts to ease regional tensions. He commended his role in preventing further escalation in Syria and facilitating dialogue. Including recent ceasefire understandings between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces.
Furthermore, Barrack noted that the United States relies on President-Barzani’s guidance to navigate Iraq’s political challenges. He linked the Tom Barrack President Barzani meeting to broader US efforts aimed at stabilizing the region.
The envoy’s visit to Erbil followed meetings in Baghdad with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. Discussions focused on bilateral relations, regional security, economic cooperation, and counterterrorism coordination.
In conclusion, the Tom Barrack President Barzani meeting reinforced Washington’s support for Kurdish leadership. And highlighted the importance of consensus in forming Iraq’s next government.