U.S. Government

In this week’s address, the President reiterated his comprehensive and sustained counter-terrorism strategy to degrade and ultimately destroy the terrorist group ISIL. His plan brings together a campaign of targeted airstrikes, increased support for Iraqi and Kurdish forces already taking on terrorists, assistance from allies and partners, expanded efforts to train and equip the Syrian opposition, and ongoing humanitarian aid for those displaced by ISIL. The President expressed his immense appreciation for the military men and women who make these efforts possible, and reminded the world that America continues to lead and stand strong against terror.

Just a few hours ago, overcoming the obstacle of ethnic and sectarian divides, the Iraqi parliament approved a new and inclusive government, one that has the potential to unite all of Iraq’s diverse communities for a strong Iraq, a united Iraq, and to give those communities the chance to build the future that all Iraqis desire and deserve.

President Obama provided an update on important issues ahead of his attendance at the NATO Summit in the United Kingdom next week.

We condemn the August 21 beating in Nakhchivan City, Azerbaijan of noted civil society activist Ilgar Nasibov, Director of the NGO Democracy Support Center, who is currently hospitalized in grave condition. Mr. Nasibov has been a well-respected civil society activist and human rights defender for more than ten years.