The Iraqi military announced on Saturday that it has received all bases and headquarters from the international coalition, marking a significant step towards enhanced security self-sufficiency. According to a statement by the Iraqi Security Media, the handover was completed, and no combat or training forces from the coalition will remain in the country after September 30. This move aligns with a September 2024 agreement between Baghdad and Washington to reorganize the US military presence in Iraq.
The agreement to end the coalition's combat mission in Iraq comes after months of negotiations between the two nations. The Iraqi government has emphasized its forces' improved capabilities to confront threats from terrorist groups like ISIS. As a result, the relationship between Iraq and coalition countries will transition to a bilateral basis, focusing on cooperation in training, intelligence sharing, and military advisory support.
The international coalition, led by the United States, was established in 2014 to counter the ISIS threat. The coalition comprises dozens of countries and has played a crucial role in supporting Iraqi forces in their fight against terrorism. With the coalition's departure, Iraqi forces are now poised to take full responsibility for the country's security.
Iraqi authorities have repeatedly called for the coalition's mission to end, advocating for a shift towards bilateral security relations with participating countries. This new framework will enable Iraq to benefit from international expertise while strengthening its own security capabilities. The Iraqi military has expressed readiness to manage and maintain security independently.
The handover of bases and headquarters marks a significant milestone in Iraq's path towards greater security autonomy. As the coalition concludes its combat mission, Iraq is set to assume full responsibility for its security. The country's progress in enhancing its military capabilities has been notable, with a focus on counter-terrorism and defense strategies.
The US-led coalition's transition out of Iraq reflects a strategic realignment in response to evolving security dynamics. By transitioning to a bilateral cooperation model, Iraq aims to solidify its security partnerships while asserting greater control over its defense posture. This shift is expected to have a lasting impact on Iraq's security landscape.
As Iraq assumes full control of its security, the country's military will continue to receive support and advisory assistance from coalition countries. This cooperation will focus on capacity building and enhancing Iraq's defense capabilities. The conclusion of the coalition's combat mission in Iraq signifies a new chapter in the country's security journey.
Key points
- Iraq takes control of all international coalition bases as US-led alliance ends combat mission
- Relationship between Iraq and coalition countries to become bilateral, focusing on training and advisory support
- Iraqi forces ready to manage and maintain security independently after coalition's departure
