Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder reiterated the United States' steadfast dedication to combating the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria during a press briefing held on Thursday. The reaffirmation of this stance follows last month's announcement regarding the impending resumption of meetings of the US-Iraqi Higher Military Commission (HMC), signaling a continued commitment to collaborative efforts in the region.

President Joe Biden recently underscored this commitment, emphasizing the US’s resolve in the fight against IS. The consistency in policy was further demonstrated through meetings held by Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani with senior US officials last month. Prime Minister Barzani engaged with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the World Economic Forum in Davos, aligning with the US's strategic objectives in the region.

Despite pressure from Iran and its proxies in Iraq to end the US military presence, influenced by assertions from the Iraqi government suggesting otherwise, the renewed HMC meetings aim to transition from the current US military presence to a framework outlined in bilateral security agreements established between Washington and Baghdad in late 2008.

Addressing recent assaults by pro-Iranian militias on US forces, Ryder emphasized, "We have not seen an attack against US forces in Iraq and Syria since February 4th." He reiterated the US’s focus on its mission to defeat IS and underscored the inherent right of self-defense.

The Biden administration, initially opting for a measured response to increased attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria, adjusted its approach following the deaths of three US soldiers in a militia strike on a base in northeast Jordan on January 28. This prompted a more forceful stance from the White House, backed by substantial military strikes against the militias responsible.

The US's reaffirmation of its commitment to combatting IS underscores its strategic importance in maintaining stability and security in the region amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.