Baghdad, Iraq – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi confirmed that October 1st will mark the beginning of a new phase in the history of the Iraqi state. This phase will commence with the complete withdrawal of all foreign military forces from the country. During his meeting with U.S. Central Command chief Charles Brad Cooper, al-Zaidi clarified that September 30th will be the deadline for the end of the international coalition’s military mission. At that point, its forces will have fully departed from Iraqi territory.
He noted that Iraq will continue to strengthen its security and military capabilities after the end of the military mission. This will enable state institutions to assume responsibility for protecting Iraqi territory and maintaining the country’s security and stability. Both sides affirmed their complete and final agreement on ending the international coalition’s military mission according to the agreed-upon timelines between Baghdad and Washington. Al-Zaydi emphasized that Iraqi-American relations will enter a new phase of cooperation and partnership in the economic, developmental, and security fields after the end of the military mission. Moreover, these relations will be based on respect for sovereignty and shared interests.
The Iraqi Prime Minister also affirmed that the state’s monopoly on the use of force, in accordance with the law, is a fundamental pillar for strengthening state authority and sovereignty and ensuring security and stability. Additionally, he indicated that this step paves the way for the country to transition to a new phase of development and prosperity. Al-Zaydi called for adherence to the constitution and the preservation of Iraq’s supreme interests. He urged the people to direct their efforts toward reconstruction, development, and progress. He also emphasized the country’s need for concerted efforts to build a strong economy and a stable state. The termination of the international coalition’s military mission comes within the framework of restructuring security relations between Iraq and the United States. This is being done to transition from a coalition military presence to a new phase of bilateral cooperation and partnership.
