Obama pushes Saudis, gulf allies to step up Iraq aid

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — With fresh friction wearing on an old alliance, President Obama pressed Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf nations on Wednesday to step up efforts to defeat the Islamic State group and help rebuild war-torn Iraq.

Obama huddled privately with Saudi King Salman at Erga Palace as Defense Secretary Ash Carter appealed to other gulf nations for more economic and political support for Iraq, echoing themes Obama planned to emphasize personally in talks with gulf leaders at a regional summit.

A senior defense official said the defense chiefs had a robust discussion, but came to no solid agreements on the increased aid.

Before ramping up assistance, Sunni leaders have been waiting to see more political improvements in Baghdad, where a political crisis has complicated efforts to focus on Islamic State, and for greater participation and aid for the Sunni population.