Iraq concluded its first round of dialogues to end the presence of the international coalition led by the US, with assurances for “the safety of American soldiers and an agreement on a timeline for withdrawal.”
Amid ongoing threats from Iran-backed factions to escalate against military bases, this development marks a significant step towards reshaping Iraq’s security landscape.
As reported by “Al-Sharq Al-Awsat” newspaper, a government statement revealed that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani oversaw the proceedings of the high-level military committee between Iraq and the international coalition, reviewing the coalition’s mission to combat ISIS.
The committee, comprising military experts, is tasked with concluding the coalition’s military mission, a decade after its successful inception in partnership with Iraqi security and military forces.
In a press statement, the Iraqi Prime Minister outlined that the military committee’s work would commence across three working groups, focusing on the threat level posed by ISIS, operational and situational requirements, and enhancing the growing capabilities of the Iraqi security forces.
A specific timeline will be formulated to conclude the coalition’s military mission, transitioning to bilateral security relations between Iraq, the US, and coalition partner countries, as well as comprehensive bilateral relations with these states. This plan aligns with the 2008 Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized the commitment to ensuring the safety of international coalition advisors during the negotiation phase across Iraq, maintaining stability, and preventing escalation.
Iraq aims to transition to bilateral relations with all coalition countries, according to Al-Sudani. He described this agreement as the culmination of a year of joint dialogue and meetings, fulfilling the government’s program commitments and pledges to the Iraqi people.
Before the dialogue session, Al-Sudani held a meeting with military and security leaders representing the Iraqi armed forces to discuss requirements for the next phase, focusing on protecting sovereignty, maintaining security and stability, and facilitating reconstruction, development, and building plans.
