Media Monitor

Iraq’s National Security Advisor lauds conclusion of coalition mission during talks with British ambassador

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji met with British Ambassador Stephen Hitchen on Thursday to discuss the recent announcement of the conclusion of the International Coalition’s mission in Iraq. Al-Araji praised the development as a significant achievement for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani’s government, emphasizing that it represents a shift towards bilateral security and intelligence cooperation between Iraq and coalition nations.

According to a joint statement released by Washington and Baghdad on September 28, the U.S.-led international coalition’s mission against the Islamic State group in Iraq will end by the close of 2025. Formed in 2014, the coalition includes forces from several nations, including the United Kingdom and France, and was established to combat ISIS in Iraq and Syria.

Full statement from al-Araji’s office:

National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji received the British Ambassador to Baghdad, Stephen Hitchen, at his office today, Thursday.

Al-Araji praised the official announcement of the end of the International Coalition’s mission, affirming that it is an achievement of Prime Minister al-Sudani’s government and represents a shift in relations with countries towards bilateral security and intelligence cooperation between Iraq and coalition members, in a way that serves the interests of Iraq and the security and stability of the region.

The meeting also included discussions on bilateral relations between Iraq and the United Kingdom in various fields, as well as a review of recent developments in Palestine and Lebanon and the consequences of the latest regional escalation.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of preventing the expansion of ongoing conflicts in the region and working through diplomatic channels to spare the region and the world from the dangers of the consequences of conflicts and crises.