Italy has announced the withdrawal of its last troops from Iraq, marking the end of a 12-year military presence in the country. According to a statement by the Italian Ministry of Defense, the withdrawal was confirmed on Tuesday, with the last of its forces leaving Iraq. This move comes after Rome had already pulled out most of its personnel in March, following a nighttime airstrike on a military base in the Kurdistan region.
The Italian forces were part of the US-led Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS, as well as a NATO mission in Iraq, which focused on providing advice and building capacity. The NATO mission was non-combat and aimed to support the Iraqi security forces. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that the withdrawal represented a transition towards Iraq taking greater responsibility for its own security.
The Italian Ministry of Defense confirmed that its forces, along with NATO, had agreed with local authorities to leave the area by September 30. The withdrawal of Italian troops from Iraq marks a significant development in the country's security landscape. Italy's military engagement in Iraq began in 2014, when it contributed troops to the international coalition fighting against ISIS.
Despite the withdrawal of its troops, Italy will maintain a presence in Iraq through two Carabinieri officers who will remain in the country as part of the European Union's Advisory Mission in Iraq. The mission operates with the approval of the Iraqi government and aims to provide advice and assistance to Iraqi security forces.
The Italian decision to withdraw its troops from Iraq comes as the country's security situation continues to evolve. Iraq has been working to rebuild its security forces and stabilize the country after years of conflict. The withdrawal of Italian troops is seen as a step towards Iraq taking greater control of its own security.
Italy's military presence in Iraq was initially established in response to the ISIS threat, and its forces played a role in supporting the Iraqi security forces. The Italian government has maintained a commitment to supporting Iraq's security and stability, and the two Carabinieri officers who will remain in the country will continue to contribute to this effort.
The withdrawal of Italian troops from Iraq marks a significant development in the country's security landscape, and reflects the ongoing evolution of the security situation in Iraq. The Italian government has confirmed that the withdrawal is complete, and that its military presence in Iraq has come to an end.
Key points
- Italy withdraws last troops from Iraq, ending 12-year military presence
- Withdrawal marks transition towards Iraq taking greater responsibility for its own security
- Two Italian Carabinieri officers to remain in Iraq as part of EU advisory mission
