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The Takeaway: US should keep embassy open in Iraq despite risk, says Ryan Crocker

Former ambassador to Iraq says US needs ‘strategic patience’ in support of prime minister; Netanyahu under siege over COVID; Palestinians ready for international conference after US elections, even if Trump wins; Hamas counting on Iran and Sudan.
RAMADI, IRAQ - SEPTEMBER 06:  U.S. ambassador Ryan Crocker speaks to tribal leaders during a key development meeting between Iraqi and American government officials and Sunni sheikhs September 6, 2007 in Ramadi, Anbar Province, Iraq. Crocker speaks fluent Arabic. He and commanding General David Petraeus are due to give a report to Congress next week on the state of the war in Iraq.  (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

Crocker says closing US Embassy in Baghdad would be 'incredibly irresponsible'

Former US Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker says it would be “incredibly irresponsible” for the United States to shut down its embassy in Baghdad despite continued attacks from Iran-backed militias, and the United States should focus on finding ways to support Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi.

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