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NATO Mission in Iraq Pledges Continued Support to Iraqi Security Forces Against Terrorism

 US soldiers during a ceremony handing over four F-16 fighter jets at Balad Air Base. (AP) 
 US soldiers during a ceremony handing over four F-16 fighter jets at Balad Air Base. (AP) 
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NATO Mission in Iraq Pledges Continued Support to Iraqi Security Forces Against Terrorism

 US soldiers during a ceremony handing over four F-16 fighter jets at Balad Air Base. (AP) 
 US soldiers during a ceremony handing over four F-16 fighter jets at Balad Air Base. (AP) 

The NATO mission in Iraq vowed to continue supporting the country's security forces through training and military advice, reaffirming that their presence is at the federal government’s request.

Lieutenant General José Antonio Agüero Martínez of Spain assumed command of NATO Mission Iraq during a ceremony in Baghdad. He succeeded Lieutenant General Giovanni Maria Iannucci of Italy.

Also, Brigadier General Stewart Manosh said they were honored to be in Iraq, noting that the command transfer ceremony reaffirms their engagement in Iraq.

Manosh also said that the partnership requires cooperation with Iraqi officials.

Manosh stressed that the NATO mission in Iraq is a strong entity based on good relationships established by Commander Lannucci with Iraqi officials.

For his part, Lannucci said the Iraqi army was founded in 1921, describing it as “one of the strongest armies in the region.”

He also praised the Iraqi Army's culture, traditions, and capability to maintain Iraq's security.

NATO’s affirmation that its forces’ presence in Iraq is upon the government’s request comes one day after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad al-Sudani attended the Iraqi Air Force's Ababil/1 exercise on Tuesday in Balad Air Base.

The Media Office of the PM said that his government agenda prioritizes raising the capabilities of the Iraqi army to the highest levels.

“Today, we gather under the great wings of the heroic Iraqi Air Force planes as they execute their remarkable Ababil/1 exercise. This exercise serves as a demonstration of the exceptional preparedness displayed by our pilots, technicians, and all dedicated crew members,” said the PM.

“Today's exemplary performance marks a significant stride in our ongoing mission to strengthen and enhance our armed forces, embodying our commitment to enhancing the army's efficiency to unprecedented levels of professionalism and excellence.”

“We encourage partners to participate in constructive military cooperation to improve security, deliver a message of reassurance in Iraq’s capabilities and stability, and enhance regional security,” he added.

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Al-Mashhadani Emphasizes Strengthening Iraqi-Saudi Relations

Al-Mashhadani during his meeting with the Saudi Ambassador in Baghdad (Iraqi Parliament)
Al-Mashhadani during his meeting with the Saudi Ambassador in Baghdad (Iraqi Parliament)
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Al-Mashhadani Emphasizes Strengthening Iraqi-Saudi Relations

Al-Mashhadani during his meeting with the Saudi Ambassador in Baghdad (Iraqi Parliament)
Al-Mashhadani during his meeting with the Saudi Ambassador in Baghdad (Iraqi Parliament)

Iraqi Parliament Speaker Dr. Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani has called for prioritizing stronger ties with Saudi Arabia, citing shared regional interests and the potential for positive outcomes.
During a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Abdulaziz Al-Shammari, Al-Mashhadani highlighted the importance of Iraqi-Saudi cooperation, particularly in addressing regional challenges. The meeting explored ways to enhance bilateral relations in economic and political spheres while discussing major Arab issues, including the Gaza war, Lebanon’s instability, and changes in Syria.
This comes after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last week in AlUla to address the challenges of the Syrian crisis, regional security, and stability. The summit focused on aligning efforts to tackle broader geopolitical issues and fostering cooperation.
As part of Iraq’s deepening engagement with Gulf countries, Baghdad recently signed numerous agreements with Saudi Arabia through the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council. Additionally, Iraq signed two memoranda of understanding with Oman, covering political consultations, economic collaboration, and transportation.
Sudani also received Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who delivered an invitation from Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to visit Oman. Discussions emphasized on enhancing bilateral economic and trade ties, particularly in oil derivatives. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of stability in Syria and the need to preserve its sovereignty and diversity while supporting its people.
In a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart, Albusaidi underscored the strong cultural and fraternal ties between Iraq and Oman. He noted opportunities for collaboration in tourism, energy, trade, and finance, while underlining his country’s commitment to participate in the Baghdad International Trade Fair in February 2024.
For his part, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein highlighted efforts to abolish visa requirements between Iraq and Oman, expressed hope for inclusive political progress in Syria, and pointed to Iraq’s commitment to further agreements that strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors.