Iraq Sets September 30 as End Date for International Coalition Mission
The spokesman for Iraq’s commander-in-chief of the armed forces said Sunday that September 30 has been set as the date for the end of the international coalition’s mission in the country, adding that Baghdad sees the date as an important milestone in strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty and stability.
Sabah al-Numan said on Saturday that the date marks the end of a long phase and the beginning of a new stage in the path toward the independent management of Iraq’s security file. He said the timing was determined based on a field assessment of the readiness of Iraq’s armed forces and security institutions.
He added that Iraqi forces have been able to secure various areas, confront threats and independently manage national security responsibilities. Al-Numan described the stage as the result of the sacrifices of Iraqi forces and an important event in the country’s path toward national sovereignty.
The spokesman for Iraq’s commander-in-chief also said that with the completion of the coalition’s withdrawal, a new chapter will open in Iraq’s relations with other countries. According to him, cooperation in the security, economic and education sectors will continue on the basis of mutual respect, shared interests and Iraq’s independent decision-making.
The US-led international coalition began operations in Iraq after the spread of the threat posed by the Islamic State group in Iraq and the region, and in recent years its role in Iraq’s security structure has remained one of the contentious issues in the country’s domestic politics.
