Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel arrived in Baghdad today to visit with and thank U.S. troops for their contributions to the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
In a statement announcing Hagel’s arrival in the Iraqi capital, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said the secretary will receive operational updates from Army Lt. Gen. James L. Terry, commander, Combined Joint Task Force -- Operation Inherent Resolve.
Hagel also will meet with key Iraqi leaders, including President Fuad Masum, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and Defense Minister Khalid al-Ubaidi, the admiral said.
Visits Slated With U.S., Australian Troops
In addition, Kirby said, Hagel will speak to U.S. and Australian personnel providing security assistance in Baghdad, and he will visit the joint operations center there.
“The secretary looks forward to gaining first-hand knowledge of coalition progress against the threat ISIL poses to the region, and to ensuring our troops -- and the personnel of our Iraqi and coalition partners -- understand how grateful he is for their service and professionalism,” Kirby said.