Germany: Coalition Withdrawal Does Not Mean End of Partnership with Iraq and Kurdistan Region

ARK News.. A source at the German Foreign Ministry said Germany will continue supporting the security sector and stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region under a “new and appropriate framework.”

According to Kurdistan24, the German Foreign Ministry source said Germany respects Iraq’s wishes and decision regarding the withdrawal of international coalition forces, stressing that the withdrawal does not mean an end to relations or the partnership between the two sides. Instead, Germany will continue supporting the security sector and stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region under a “new and appropriate framework.”

The source said in exclusive remarks that it is in the mutual interest of both sides for Germany’s role and presence in Iraq, particularly in the Kurdistan Region, to continue, with forms of cooperation adapted to include continued support for the security sector, civilian efforts to consolidate stability, and the promotion of development.

The German Foreign Ministry source said the issue was a key focus of talks held in Berlin during the Iraqi prime minister’s visit at the official invitation of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The source added that discussions with Iraqi partners are continuing to determine the details and mechanisms of cooperation in the next phase.

Regarding the situation on the ground involving ISIS, the German source said the group has significantly weakened, its territorial presence has ended, and its attacks have declined. At the same time, the capabilities of federal forces and Kurdish partners to independently deal with ISIS remnants are growing, while maintaining these gains still requires continued coordination.

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