Obama: ‘Iran Can Play a Constructive Role’ in Helping Iraq

OBAMA: "Our view is that Iran can play a constructive role if it is helping to send the same message to the Iraqi government that we're sending. Which is that Iraq only holds together if it's inclusive and that if the interests of Sunni, Shia, and Kurd are all respected. If Iran is coming in solely as an armed force on behalf of the Shia and if it is framed in that fashion, then that probably worsens the situation and the prospect for government formation that would be constructed over the long-term."
REPORTER: [indecipherable]
OBAMA: "You know, I think just as Iraq's leaders have to make decisions, I think Iran has heard from us. We've indicated to them that it is important for them to avoid steps that might encourage the kind of sectarian splits that might lead to civil war. And the one thing that I think is -- you know, has to be emphasized, we have deep differences with Iran across the board on a whole host of issues. Obviously, what's happened in part is the result of Iran coming in hot and heavy on one side. And, you know, Iran should consider the fact that if it is -- if it's view of the region is solely through sectarian frames, they could find themselves fighting in a whole lot of places. That's probably not good for the Iranian economy or the Iranian people over the long-term, either. I expect there are folks in Iran who recognize that. An Iraq and chaos on their borders is probably not in their interests. But old habits die hard. And, you know, we'll have to see whether they can take what I think will be a more promising path over the next couple of days. All right? Thanks very much every body."