US urges speedy formation of new Iraq government, prepared to offer additional aid

SYDNEY – U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is urging Iraq's new leaders to work quickly to form an inclusive government and says the U.S. is prepared to offer additional aid in the fight against Islamic State militants.

Kerry says the U.S. "stands ready to fully support a new and inclusive Iraqi government."

Iraq's new president on Monday announced his choice to replace incumbent Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. But al-Maliki isn't stepping aside quietly and has accused President Fouad Massoum of violating Iraq's constitution.

Kerry says he hopes new Iraqi leaders will work quickly to resolve "outstanding issues that have been frozen for years."

Kerry spoke during a press conference in Sydney Tuesday with Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and their Australian counterparts.