Iraq Retains US Military Advisers Amid Ongoing IS Threat

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, announced on Monday that a small contingent of U.S. military advisers will remain in Iraq to assist in the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria. This decision comes despite an agreement to reduce American military presence in Iraq by September 2023, which aimed to see U.S. forces withdraw from several bases.

During a press briefing in Baghdad, al-Sudani explained that U.S. military advisers and support personnel are currently stationed at both the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq and the al-Harir air base in northern Iraq. He noted that while a full withdrawal from Ain al-Asad was initially planned, “developments in Syria” necessitated the continuation of a small unit of between 250 and 350 advisers and security personnel at the base. Their primary role will be to support counter-ISIS surveillance and coordinate efforts with the al-Tanf base in Syria.

Concerns regarding a resurgence of the Islamic State group have heightened, particularly following the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad during a rapid rebel offensive in December. Al-Sudani acknowledged these fears, stating that the group, which once controlled large territories in both Iraq and Syria, “no longer poses a significant threat inside Iraq.”

Balancing relationships with both the United States and Iran remains a critical aspect of Iraq’s foreign policy. Al-Sudani emphasized a commitment to ensuring that Iraq does not become a proxy in regional conflicts. “We put Iraq first, and we do not wish to act as a proxy for anyone,” he asserted. He further called on the U.S. to resume negotiations with Iran, describing the previous administration’s “maximum pressure” approach as “counterproductive.”

In addition, tensions have flared between Baghdad and Washington regarding the presence of Iran-backed militias within Iraq. The Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of militias formed to combat the Islamic State, was integrated into the Iraqi military in 2016, yet continues to operate with considerable autonomy. Although al-Sudani did not directly address proposed legislation that would strengthen ties between the Iraqi military and the PMF, he reiterated his government’s commitment to disarmament and national dialogue.

“We encourage all factions to either integrate into state institutions or engage in political life,” he stated, suggesting the possibility of political parties emerging from armed factions. With parliamentary elections scheduled for next month, al-Sudani remarked that armed groups that have transformed into political entities have the constitutional right to participate in the democratic process.

As Iraq prepares for these pivotal elections, the outcome will significantly influence whether al-Sudani secures a second term in office. The prime minister’s stance on militia integration and negotiations with Iran will likely play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape moving forward.