Iraq formalizes the end of the United States' "combat mission" on its territory
Commanders of US and Iraqi forces face each other for their third and final round of talks on ending the coalition's “combat mission” at a military base in central Baghdad on December 9, 2021. via REUTERS - JOINT COMMAND MEDIA O OPERATIONS
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1 min
The announcement was made after a military meeting between the commanders of the international anti-jihadist coalition led by Washington and Iraqi security forces.
American troops will only have a training and advisory mission to Iraqi forces.
An announcement more political than military.
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With our correspondent in Baghdad,
Lucile Wassermann
Gathered at a military base in central Baghdad, commanders of the US and Iraqi forces face each other for their third and final round of talks.
The objective is to formalize the end of the
United States' "
combat mission
" in Iraq.
An hour later, Saad Maad, representative of the Iraqi interior ministry, announces the news, behind a desk: “
The coalition will very soon end its combat mission in Iraq, as agreed, before the end of the year.
US Major General John Brennan told us that some soldiers and some equipment had already been transferred out of Iraq.
"
Coalition forces will remain present
This transition will not change much on the ground, however.
2,500 American troops are deployed in Iraq and this contingent is expected to remain the same as of January 1.
"
Coalition forces will continue to remain present in Iraq at the invitation of the government, now for a mission of support, advice and aid to Iraqi forces,
" added Saad Maad.
An announcement less military than political therefore, because it nevertheless serves the interests of the Iraqi government today while
pro-Iran factions are
increasing threats in the country, demanding the final departure of the United States.
►
To read also: Iraq: the Islamic State organization harasses the populations of the north of the country
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