US and Iraq to Talk on Transition from Military Coalition to Bilateral Relations

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n a significant development, the United States and Iraq are poised to initiate discussions regarding the conclusion of the U.S.-led international military coalition in Iraq. The focus will shift towards establishing bilateral relations between the two nations. This marks a crucial step forward, previously hindered by the conflict in Gaza.

The United States conveyed its intention through a letter presented by U.S. Ambassador to Iraq, Alina Romanowski, to Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on January 25, 2024. Importantly, the U.S. dropped preconditions, including the cessation of attacks by Iran-backed Iraqi militant groups, signaling a readiness to engage in constructive dialogue.

The Iraqi foreign ministry acknowledged the receipt of an “important” letter, emphasizing that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani would carefully study its contents. While the specifics of the letter were not disclosed, it is clear that the proposed talks are expected to unfold over several months, with the outcome uncertain and no immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops anticipated.

2,500 US troops in Iraq

As of now, the United States maintains 2,500 troops in Iraq, actively supporting local forces to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State, which had captured substantial territories in Iraq and Syria in 2014 before facing defeat. Additionally, troops from various European nations participate in the U.S.-led coalition dedicated to counterterrorism efforts.

The mission’s presence in Iraq has faced mounting pressure, especially against the backdrop of escalating tensions witnessed due to the Gaza genocide. The exchange of attacks between militias and U.S. forces, orchestrated by Iran-backed factions, has strained the delicate alliance between Iraq, Tehran, and Washington.

U.S. troops stationed in Iraq and Syria have experienced approximately 150 attacks by militants based in Iraq, prompting retaliatory strikes by the U.S., including the latest on Tuesday. The surge in violence prompted Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani to advocate for the swift departure of U.S.-led coalition forces through negotiations, a process initiated last year but interrupted by the Gaza genocide.

Talks with Iraq

Washington’s reluctance to negotiate a potential withdrawal while under persistent attack has shifted due to the realization that the attacks are unlikely to cease. There is a growing acknowledgment that maintaining the status quo would only lead to continuous escalation.

A U.S. official stated, “The U.S. and Iraq are close to agreement on starting the Higher Military Commission dialogue that was announced back in August.” This commission is expected to facilitate a joint assessment of the Iraqi security forces’ capacity to combat the Islamic State and shape the nature of the bilateral security relationship. The official emphasized that the timing of the talks is unrelated to recent attacks and that the U.S. will retain the right to self-defense throughout the negotiation process.

The attacks have been orchestrated by influential Iraqi militias with close ties to Iran, some of which lack formal representation in the Iraqi parliament but wield considerable influence in decision-making. The initiation of talks is seen as an attempt to alleviate political pressure on Prime Minister al-Sudani’s government and potentially reduce attacks on U.S. forces.

Source: Reuters