rki.news | Sources Anadolu / Iraqi News Agency
Baghdad: Iraq on Wednesday announced the formal conclusion of the US-led international coalition’s military mission in the country, marking a transition toward bilateral security relations with coalition member states.
Iraqi Prime Minister’s Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji described the development as an important milestone following negotiations and understandings that began in July 2021. He said the new phase would focus on strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty through bilateral relations.
Al-Araji stressed that the end of the coalition mission does not mean an end to cooperation. Security and intelligence coordination, information exchange, expertise sharing and capacity-building will continue based on mutual respect and shared interests.
The US Department of War also confirmed the conclusion of Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq, saying the departure of coalition forces and equipment from Erbil Air Base marked the end of the military mission.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the transition moves Iraq from a wartime coalition framework toward an Iraqi-led security effort supported by bilateral relations.
The United States said Iraqi security forces would continue efforts against remaining ISIS elements, with Washington maintaining targeted training and intelligence support.
The coalition was established in 2014 after ISIS captured large areas of Iraq and Syria. Iraq declared victory over the group in December 2017.
Iraq Ends US-Led Coalition Mission, Shifts to Bilateral Ties
