The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is pulling some troops back from Iraq to assist the United Kingdom’s efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. This move comes as training for Iraqi Security Forces has been temporarily halted due to the ongoing health crisis.
Since 2014, the UK has been actively involved in training Iraqi forces as part of the Global Coalition against terrorism. However, recent reductions in training demand, coupled with paused NATO missions, have led to a decision to pause the UK mission in Iraq for 60 days as a precautionary measure.
Despite the temporary withdrawal of some personnel, key military staff will remain in Iraq to continue supporting Iraqi, coalition, and UK interests on the ground.
Troops returning to the UK will remain on high alert and ready for deployment worldwide if needed. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace commented on the situation, stating: “In recent months the tempo of training has significantly declined, which means that I am in a position to bring back the current training unit to the UK.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
