Iraq’s National Security Advisor Qassem Al-Araji commented on the relocation of US forces to the Kurdistan Region. Al-Araji stated that this move has no link to recent regional tensions. He also emphasized that the withdrawal follows an agreement reached in 2023 concerning the US troop withdrawal.
First, Al-Araji reminded that this plan was prepared long ago. According to him, the US troop withdrawal plan was set after negotiations in 2023. This plan emerged after extensive discussions with coalition forces.
Later, Al-Araji explained that the withdrawal would happen in stages. The first stage involves the US troop relocation from central and southern Iraq to the Kurdistan Region by the end of this September. In the next stage, all troops will leave Iraq entirely by September 2026. Al-Araji stressed that this timeline was not influenced by any regional crises. He also noted that Kurdistan is constitutionally part of Iraq.
On the other hand, Al-Araji addressed the controversial Popular Mobilization Forces law. He revealed that the National Security Council requested a postponement of the law until after the elections. According to him, any law that sparks political or social division requires careful handling to focus on matters like US troop withdrawal.
Moreover, Al-Araji underlined the importance of the Popular Mobilization Forces for Iraq. He stressed that this institution made great sacrifices for the country. He firmly stated that Iraq would not allow any external or friendly power to dissolve it.
In conclusion, the US troop withdrawal plan represents a crucial turning point in Iraq’s security future. Al-Araji reiterated that this plan will be carried out with determination. He also underlined that the US troop withdrawal plan stands at the core of Iraq’s sovereignty.
