Iraq Retains US Military Advisers Amid Ongoing IS Threat

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, announced on Monday that a small group of U.S. military advisers will continue to be stationed in Iraq to assist in operations against the Islamic State group (IS) in neighboring Syria. This decision underscores the ongoing security challenges posed by IS, particularly following recent developments in the region.

During a press conference in Baghdad, al-Sudani detailed that U.S. military personnel are currently based at the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq, as well as the al-Harir air base in the north. This arrangement comes after an agreement between Washington and Baghdad last year that aimed to conclude a U.S.-led coalition against IS by September 2023. The initial plan involved a full withdrawal of U.S. forces from Ain al-Asad by that date, but al-Sudani indicated that the situation in Syria necessitated the retention of a “small unit” of between 250 and 350 advisers at the base.

These advisers will focus on enhancing surveillance and coordinating efforts with the al-Tanf base in Syria. Al-Sudani noted that other U.S. installations in Iraq are witnessing a “gradual reduction” in both personnel and operations. The decision to retain U.S. advisers stems from fears of a potential resurgence of IS following the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad during a rebel offensive in December. The Iraqi government is concerned that IS could exploit the security vacuum left behind by the Syrian army.

Despite these risks, al-Sudani asserted that IS no longer represents a significant threat within Iraq’s borders. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced relationship between Iraq, the United States, and Iran, stating, “We put Iraq first, and we do not wish to act as a proxy for anyone.” He reiterated that Iraq would not serve as a battleground for regional conflicts.

In his statements, al-Sudani called for the United States to re-engage in negotiations with Iran, criticizing the previous administration’s “maximum pressure” approach as “counterproductive.” He acknowledged Iran’s role as a significant and influential country that warrants respectful dialogue.

Tensions have persisted between Baghdad and Washington regarding the presence of Iran-backed militias in Iraq, particularly the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Although the PMF was formally integrated into the Iraqi military in 2016, it continues to operate with considerable autonomy. The Iraqi parliament is currently debating legislation that would strengthen the relationship between the military and the PMF, drawing concerns from U.S. officials.

While al-Sudani did not directly address the proposed legislation, he highlighted his government’s commitment to disarmament and national dialogue. He expressed a desire for armed factions to either integrate into state institutions or participate in political processes, which could involve forming political parties and competing in elections.

As Iraq prepares for parliamentary elections next month, which will determine whether al-Sudani will secure a second term, he reinforced that armed factions transitioning into political entities possess the constitutional right to participate in the electoral process. The outcome of these elections could significantly influence the future landscape of Iraqi governance and its foreign relations.