Press Statement

On the occasion of the official conclusion of the mission of the International Coalition to combat the terrorist Daesh in Iraq, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms that this milestone marks Iraq’s transition to a new phase in which it assumes full responsibility for its security and stability, within the framework of consolidating its national sovereignty and strengthening the independence of its security decision-making, in line with its priorities and higher national interests. This also reflects the ability of its constitutional institutions and competent security agencies to assume their national responsibilities.

The Ministry commends the unity of the Iraqi people and the solidarity of its institutions, which constituted a fundamental pillar in overcoming one of the most difficult stages in its modern history and achieving victory over the terrorist Daesh gangs.

As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recalls, with profound respect and pride, the sacrifices of Iraq’s righteous martyrs and the heroism of the members of its armed forces in all their branches and formations, as well as the Popular Mobilisation Forces and the Peshmerga, it commends the significant role played by the armed forces and security and intelligence agencies in protecting the country and safeguarding the security of its citizens, as well as the competence and vigilance they demonstrated in confronting security challenges and maintaining stability.

In this context, the Ministry expresses its profound thanks and appreciation to the United States of America, as the leader of the International Coalition, and to the friendly countries participating in it, in recognition of their role in supporting and assisting Iraq during its war against the terrorist Daesh gangs and the contributions and sacrifices they made, including the sacrifices of Coalition personnel who lost their lives during military operations against the terrorist organisation. The Ministry also commends the cooperation and coordination between Coalition forces and the Iraqi armed forces, and their contributions to achieving victory over the terrorist organisation.

The Ministry affirms that the official conclusion of the International Coalition’s mission in Iraq does not mean the end of cooperation with friendly countries. Security cooperation will remain an ongoing track based on shared interests and mutual respect for national sovereignty, encompassing training, the exchange of expertise and information, and capacity-building, in a manner that strengthens security and stability and supports international efforts to combat terrorism and extremism.

The Ministry reiterates the commitment of the Republic of Iraq to continuing its efforts to combat terrorism and enhance its national security, and to consolidating its relations with friendly countries and international partners on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests, in a manner that serves security and stability at both the regional and international levels.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq
30 September 2026