The Iraqi government has confirmed that the country's territory will no longer host any elements of the international coalition after September 30. This development comes as a result of a transitional plan agreed upon between Baghdad and the coalition led by the United States. The plan aims to conclude the military mission of the coalition within Iraq and transition into a new phase of bilateral security relations.
According to the spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Defense, Major General Yahya Rasul, no coalition forces will be present in Iraq after the specified date. He emphasized that the Iraqi people, supported by the international coalition, were responsible for liberating their land. Rasul also highlighted the significant progress made by Iraqi security and intelligence agencies in combating terrorism and corruption.
Major General Rasul pointed out that the operation leading to the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was primarily based on Iraqi intelligence information. He noted that Iraqi intelligence agencies have achieved substantial successes against terrorism and corruption. Meanwhile, the security apparatus has demonstrated considerable advancement in maintaining control.
The Iraqi military spokesperson also mentioned that the country's borders are now secured with advanced devices and equipment. He further stated that Iraq possesses American, French, Korean, and Czech aircraft, which are utilized by the Iraqi Air Force to conduct airstrikes. This underlines Iraq's growing military capabilities.
Regarding the Victorio base, Rasul announced that the Iraqi army will utilize it to secure the country's airspace and land. He clarified that there are no coalition aircraft stationed at the Victorio base. This development signifies a significant step towards Iraq's enhanced security self-sufficiency.
The international coalition was established in 2014 to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) after the group seized extensive areas of Iraqi and Syrian territories. Over the years, the coalition provided multifaceted support to Iraqi forces, including training, intelligence sharing, air support, and logistical assistance.
The confirmation of the coalition's withdrawal aligns with Iraq's efforts to assert its sovereignty and security autonomy. Major General Rasul stressed that no individual or entity is above the law, reaffirming Iraq's commitment to the rule of law and national security.
Key points
- The Iraqi government confirms that no foreign troops from the international coalition will remain in the country after September 30.
- Iraqi security and intelligence agencies have made significant progress in combating terrorism and corruption.
- The country is set to utilize the Victorio base for its own security purposes following the coalition's withdrawal.
