The governments of the United States and Iraq have committed to continuing their collaboration to achieve the “definitive defeat” of the Islamic State in the region. This announcement comes amidst ongoing negotiations regarding the future presence of the international coalition against the jihadist group led by Washington.
A delegation led by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and another led by Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit al-Abbasi recently held their second Joint Cooperation and Dialogue on Security meeting in Washington. During these talks, both sides reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing Iraq’s defense and security capabilities, particularly in light of the anticipated conclusion of the international coalition’s mission.
These discussions were grounded in assessments by the Coalition Military Supreme Committee, which evaluated the current threat posed by the Islamic State and considered Iraq’s capacity to confront this danger. The operational requirements needed for Iraq to handle the threat were also considered.
A statement from the Pentagon indicated that the U.S. and Iraq aim to continue consultations to strengthen bilateral cooperation, ensuring that the Islamic State’s defeat is lasting after more than a decade of partnership. They took a moment to honor the “millions of victims” of the terrorist group, which included civilians and Iraqi, Kurdish, and international security forces.
The delegations reached an understanding regarding a new phase in their security relations, which will involve cooperation through liaison officers, training, and traditional security collaboration programs. They emphasized that their bilateral relations contribute to “regional stability,” which fundamentally requires the complete defeat of the Islamic State.
In February, Iraq and the United States began a series of meetings to outline a “roadmap” aimed at establishing a concrete timeline for the withdrawal of international troops, reflecting the tensions that arose due to U.S. airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias in the country. This action was a retaliation for attacks against U.S. bases in the region.
The coalition was formed in 2014 during the peak of the Islamic State’s power when the group controlled significant areas in Syria and Iraq amid widespread instability. The coalition, led by the United States, includes Spain, which has around 180 military personnel aiding in the training and capacity building of Iraqi forces in their counter-terrorism efforts.
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