The US Department of Defense announced on Wednesday that the coalition had concluded its military operation in Iraq, known as Operation Inherent Resolve. The withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq's Arbil Air Base in Kurdistan marks the end of a 12-year military chapter that began with the defeat of ISIS. The US will continue to provide targeted training and intelligence support to its Iraqi partners.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaydi stated that a new phase has begun, one that emphasizes Iraqi sovereignty. He noted that Iraqi security forces have taken control of the country's security landscape, rendering the coalition's mission obsolete. Al-Zaydi emphasized that this new phase is characterized by Iraqi strength, institutional capacity, and partnerships with friendly countries.
The US Pentagon reported that the withdrawal of coalition forces and equipment from Arbil Air Base marks the end of the military mission. However, the US will maintain a presence in the region, with forces continuing to operate in Syria to combat ISIS. The coalition's exit from Iraq is part of a broader transition towards a bilateral defense relationship between the US and Iraq.
According to the US Central Command, the coalition's withdrawal from Iraq is part of a planned transition. The command noted that the US and its partners will continue to work together to address regional security challenges. Iraqi forces will assume full responsibility for securing the country and preventing ISIS from regrouping.
Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heba Al-Halbousi emphasized that Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. He stated that the country's strength lies in its respect for its constitution, institutions, and the rule of law. Al-Halbousi also noted that Iraq will not be used as a platform for settling scores or launching attacks on other countries.
The leader of the Sadrist Movement, Muqtada Al-Sadr, announced the dissolution of the "Liwa al-Mawd" militia and the transformation of the "Mahdi Army" into the "Ansar al-Mahdi" institution. Al-Sadr called on the US to provide compensation for damages caused by its occupation of Iraqi territory and warned against interference in Iraq's internal affairs.
The US-led coalition began its military operation in Iraq in 2014, providing support to Iraqi forces in their fight against ISIS. The coalition's exit marks a significant milestone in Iraq's post-conflict recovery. Key points:
Key points
- The US-led coalition has ended its military mission in Iraq.
- Iraqi forces will assume full responsibility for securing the country.
- The US will continue to provide targeted training and intelligence support to Iraqi partners.
