In a clear signal of changing security dynamics, Italy confirmed on Tuesday that its last soldiers have left Iraq, concluding a 12‑year deployment that began with the fight against the Islamic State and later evolved into a NATO advisory role. The withdrawal, detailed in a statement from Italy’s defence ministry, follows a phased drawdown that saw most personnel return home by March 2026 after an overnight air strike hit a base in the Kurdistan region.
Background of the Italian mission
Italian forces first joined the U.S.-led Operation Inherent Resolve, contributing combat troops to degrade the Islamic State’s territorial hold. As the insurgent threat waned, Italy transitioned its presence to the NATO Mission Iraq, a non‑combat advisory and capacity‑building effort aimed at strengthening Iraqi security institutions. Throughout the mission, Italian troops worked alongside NATO allies and Iraqi authorities, providing training, logistical support, and strategic guidance.
Final steps and future cooperation
The defence ministry statement noted that Italian and NATO forces reached an agreement with Iraqi officials to complete the exit by September 30. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto framed the move as a “transition towards greater Iraqi responsibility for its own security,” emphasizing respect for Iraq’s sovereignty and the desire for local forces to assume full control.
While the combat and advisory components are ending, two Italian Carabinieri officers will stay on the ground as part of the European Union’s EUAM Iraq mission. This civilian‑led initiative, operating with the explicit approval of the Iraqi government, focuses on rule‑of‑law reforms, police training, and institutional capacity building.
Implications for NATO and U.S. partners
The Italian pull‑out aligns with broader NATO efforts to recalibrate force postures in the Middle East as regional threats evolve. By handing over responsibilities to Iraqi authorities, the coalition aims to reduce the footprint of foreign troops while maintaining a framework for continued security cooperation. U.S. officials have welcomed the development, noting that the reduction of foreign forces does not diminish the commitment to a stable Iraq.
Analysts suggest that Italy’s decision reflects both domestic political considerations and a strategic assessment that the primary objectives of the mission have been achieved. The continued presence of EUAM personnel ensures that Italy remains engaged in Iraq’s long‑term stability through non‑military channels.
Local reaction in Italy
In Rome, the withdrawal has been met with approval from families and veterans groups who view the end of overseas deployments as a step toward focusing resources on domestic priorities. The move also underscores Italy’s broader defence strategy, which seeks to balance international commitments with the need to protect its own citizens and support traditional family values at home.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
