U.S. and Iraq Continue Talks on Long-Term Security Cooperation

Discussions regarding the future of U.S. security cooperation with Iraq, including the role of U.S. service members on the ground, are ongoing, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. The talks are being held as part of the U.S.-Iraq Higher Military Commission (HMC), a group established to transition from the global coalition’s defeat-ISIS mission to a long-term bilateral security relationship.

Speaking at a meeting with civilian media, Ryder explained that the HMC is focused on shaping the future security framework between the two nations. “We highly value Iraq as a partner,” Ryder said, emphasizing Iraq’s crucial role in regional security, particularly in counterterrorism efforts.

The HMC, formed after the U.S.-Iraq Joint Security Cooperation Dialogue in August 2023, has been working through group meetings to plan how the security partnership will evolve. Ryder emphasized the importance of the HMC’s ongoing conversations, which will help determine the future role of U.S. forces in Iraq and their continued efforts to defeat ISIS.

The U.S. currently has around 2,500 military personnel stationed in Iraq as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, working in partnership with Iraqi and Kurdish security forces to combat ISIS. The talks are expected to take into account the current threat posed by ISIS, operational requirements, and the readiness of Iraqi security forces.

Ryder also noted that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III is actively involved in discussions concerning U.S. force posture in Iraq. Decisions about U.S. troop levels and missions will ultimately be informed by the outcomes of the HMC and will rest with senior U.S. and Iraqi leadership.–News Desk