BAGHDAD (AP) -- Vice President Joe Biden has arrived in Iraq for a visit intended to help resolve a political crisis that's hindering efforts to defeat the Islamic State group.

 

Biden flew overnight from Washington to the Iraqi capital overnight. The White House isn't publicly disclosing his itinerary due to security concerns, but Biden is expected to meet with Iraqi leaders.

 

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi (HY'-dahr ahl ah-BAH'-dee) is struggling to deliver on reforms pressed by protesters who are angry about corruption and political patronage. Al-Abadi has tried to appease critics but faces opposition from Iraq's entrenched political groups.

 

The Obama administration this month agreed to send 200 more troops and Apache helicopters for the fight against IS. But the political turmoil has become a distraction and diverted critical resources.