Iraq recalls 500 soldiers from Islamabad as India-Pakistan conflict escalates

BAGHDAD — Iraq has ordered the return of 500 soldiers and officers from a training program in Pakistan, citing rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Defense announced Saturday.

In a statement, the ministry said, “The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, directed the return of 500 trainees from the Second Battalion of the 66th Brigade, Second Special Forces Division, currently in Pakistan under a previous training agreement, to Iraq due to the current situation in Pakistan.”

The ministry added that the decision was taken “to ensure the safety of our brave armed forces personnel,” and that necessary arrangements for their return had already been made.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply in recent days following a deadly attack on Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan-based militants. In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged militant infrastructure within Pakistan. Pakistan retaliated with “Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos,” striking Indian military positions.

Both countries have reported casualties, including among civilians, and have accused each other of provoking the hostilities. International actors, including the United States, G7 nations, and China, have urged both sides to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to avoid further escalation.