(VOVworld) - US President Barack Obama Monday pledged continued close cooperation with Iraq on combating the self-declared Islamic State (IS) militant group.

Islamic State has displaced thousands of civilians, forcing them to flee their homes and settle in refugee camps.

In a phone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al- Abadi, both leaders agreed on the importance of having the new government quickly take concrete steps to address the aspirations and legitimate grievances of the Iraqi people. Al-Abadi expressed his commitment to work with all communities in Iraq as well as regional and international partners to strengthen Iraq`s capabilities to fight this common enemy.
US Secretary of State John Kerry also described the formation of a new Iraqi government as a major milestone and also a strong foundation for the country to counter IS. He added that the US would stand shoulder to shoulder with the Iraqis, stating that the broadest possible coalition of partners will be built to endure though the months and perhaps even the years to come.