In Washington, White House spokesperson Josh Earnest said the U.S. supports the Iraqi government but called on Baghdad to do more to address political grievances.

Deputy White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest: “These kinds of challenges don’t have a solely military solution. So, while we can provide important military assistance to improve the security situation in Iraq, addressing these challenges is going to require a commitment by the Iraqi leadership, including Prime Minister Maliki, to confront the kinds of unresolved issues that are facing all of the people in Iraq.”