Middle East Situation | NATO to Withdraw Troops from Iraq Back to Europe

NATO spokesperson confirmed that, due to the Middle East situation, NATO member countries have unanimously decided to suspend training missions in Iraq and withdraw all personnel from Iraq. Reuters reports that the number of personnel evacuated has reached several hundred.

NATO stated that as the Iran conflict affects the entire Middle East region, the NATO Iraq mission has completed adjustments and has withdrawn all personnel from the Middle East to Europe. The last group of personnel from the Iraq mission left Iraq on Friday.

The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) of NATO announced that the mission will continue operations from its military headquarters in Naples, Italy. The mission does not carry out combat operations and mainly provides advisory support to Iraqi security forces to enhance their ability to maintain national stability, combat terrorism, and prevent extremist organizations from regaining strength.

Polish Defense Minister stated that all military task forces stationed in Iraq have been withdrawn. Most personnel have returned to Poland or are on their way back, with some currently in Jordan.

U.S. President Trump earlier criticized NATO allies for lacking support in the U.S. and Israel’s military actions against Iran, calling the countries involved cowards and stating that without the U.S., NATO is just a paper tiger.

Trump said that NATO countries are unwilling to participate in military actions to contain “nuclear-armed Iran”; meanwhile, when the conflict has achieved military victory and risks are lower, NATO countries instead complain about high oil prices caused by the situation.