The US State Department has announced the return of its embassy personnel in Iraq, a move that the Iraqi government said was a sign of resumed regional stability.
“Secretary Rubio decided to end the Ordered Departure Status for the US Mission Iraq personnel, including personnel at the US Embassy Baghdad and US Consulate General Erbil,” said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
“Personnel who are temporarily relocated outside of Iraq will begin a gradual return to US Embassy Baghdad and Consulate General Erbil,” she said.
“The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iraq remains at a Level 4, which of course translates to Do Not Travel. We remain strongly committed to advancing our policy priorities in Iraq, strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty, advancing US business interests, and engaging with Iraqi leaders and the Iraqi people. The State Department, US Embassy Baghdad, and Consulate General Erbil will continue to closely monitor and assess, as you might imagine, the security situation across Iraq and the region,” she added.
Iraq welcomed Washington’s decision to return its embassy staff to Baghdad, considering it a positive indicator of the return of stability and the end of a period of tensions.
“The Iraqi government has been keen since the beginning of the crisis to take all necessary measures to protect diplomatic missions, stemming from its commitment to the rule of law and international responsibilities regarding the security of these missions,” Farhad Alaaldin, political advisor to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, told Asharq Al-Awsat.
He said “the return of US diplomatic staff to work at full capacity reflects growing confidence in the security environment in Iraq, and confirms that the country has chosen the path of de-escalation and dialogue. It will continue to play its constructive role in supporting regional stability and avoiding escalation.”
