French President Francois Hollande says Islamic State militants pose a global threat that requires a global response.
Mr. Hollande said Monday there is "no time to lose" as he and Iraqi President Fouad Massoum opened a conference in Paris focusing on peace and security in Iraq.
The meeting includes officials from about 30 countries, the United Nations, European Union and the Arab League. It is the latest step in an effort to build a coalition to battle the Islamic State group, which has taken over large areas in northern and western Iraq as well as eastern Syria.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is taking part in the conference after spending days meeting with leaders in the Middle East.
He said Sunday that a growing number of countries are prepared to join the fight, including several Arab Nations offering to give military assistance and carry out airstrikes, if needed.