The US Department of Defense, also known as the Pentagon, announced on Wednesday that the US and its allies in the international coalition have officially concluded Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq. This comes after the withdrawal of forces from the Al-Asad airbase in Anbar province, which was one of the last remaining coalition bases in the country. The operation was launched in 2014 to combat the Islamic State (ISIS) and has now come to an end.
The withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq marks a significant milestone in the country's transition towards self-sufficiency and sovereignty. According to the Pentagon, the US will continue to provide targeted training and intelligence support to its Iraqi partners. The US expects the Iraqi security forces to take the lead in securing the country and countering the remaining ISIS elements. The conclusion of the military operation is seen as a major achievement for the Iraqi government.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaydi welcomed the conclusion of the coalition's military operation, marking the beginning of a new era for Iraq. He stated that the country's security agencies have taken control of the security landscape, and it is now the responsibility of the Iraqi people to protect their country. Al-Zaydi emphasized that there will be no tolerance for armed groups outside the law or institutions.
The Iraqi government has been working to rebuild its military and security forces after years of conflict. The country's military has been bolstered by support from the US and other coalition partners, enabling it to take on a more prominent role in securing the country. The conclusion of the coalition's military operation is seen as a significant step towards Iraq's long-term stability and security.
The US and Iraqi governments have been working closely together to ensure a smooth transition. In September 2024, the two countries issued a joint statement outlining their strategic partnership and cooperation in the areas of defense and security. The US has committed to providing continued support to Iraq, including training and intelligence sharing.
The conclusion of Operation Inherent Resolve marks a significant shift in the US role in Iraq. While the US will continue to provide support to the Iraqi military, the focus will shift from combat operations to building the capacity of the Iraqi security forces. The US is expected to maintain a reduced military presence in the country, with a focus on advising and training Iraqi forces.
The Iraqi parliament has also welcomed the conclusion of the coalition's military operation. The speaker of the parliament, Heba Al-Halbousi, emphasized that the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. He also stressed that Iraq will not be used as a platform for attacks on other countries or as a theater for settling scores between regional powers.
Key points
- The US and its allies have concluded their military operation in Iraq, marking the end of a 12-year chapter.
- The Iraqi government has taken control of the security landscape, and the US will continue to provide targeted training and intelligence support.
- The conclusion of the military operation marks a significant step towards Iraq's long-term stability and security.
