Iraq has announced the end of the international coalition's military presence on its territory, according to a statement by the country's military spokesperson. The announcement comes after Iraq took control of the main US military base at Baghdad International Airport. This move is seen as a significant step towards establishing Iraq's independence in security matters. The country's military leadership has emphasized its commitment to maintaining cooperation with international partners on a mutually respectful basis.
The spokesperson for Iraq's military, Major General Saad Mean, stated that the handover of the base and an agreement with Turkey to withdraw its military forces from a base in Nineveh province demonstrate Iraq's ability to manage its security affairs independently. Mean emphasized that Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity are essential to the country's stability and its relationships with neighboring countries and the international community.
Iraq's air force commander, Major General Khalid Al-Tamimi, confirmed that no international coalition forces have been conducting operations within Iraqi territory since early 2026. Al-Tamimi stated that all aerial operations within Iraq are now carried out independently of the international coalition. He also noted that Iraqi F-16 fighter jets have been conducting missions without foreign intervention for over 10 days.
The Iraqi air force has made significant strides in maintaining its aircraft, with 100% of F-16 maintenance now carried out by Iraqi personnel. This development reflects the country's growing military capabilities and its efforts to assert its independence in defense matters. The international coalition has been supporting Iraq's military efforts against extremist groups since 2014.
The announcement of the end of the international coalition's military presence in Iraq comes as the country continues to navigate its relationships with neighboring countries and the international community. Iraq's government has emphasized its commitment to maintaining good relations with its partners while also asserting its independence in security matters.
The country's military leadership has expressed its appreciation for the support provided by the international coalition over the years. However, they have also emphasized the need for Iraq to take full responsibility for its security affairs. This move is seen as a significant step towards establishing Iraq's sovereignty and independence.
The implications of this development for regional security and Iraq's relationships with neighboring countries remain to be seen. However, the country's military leadership has expressed its confidence in Iraq's ability to manage its security affairs independently.
Key points
- Iraq takes control of main US military base at Baghdad International Airport.
- Iraqi air force conducts operations independently of international coalition.
- Iraq asserts its independence in security matters, maintaining cooperation with international partners on a mutually respectful basis.
