Baghdad Denies Reports of US Troop Deployment, Reiterates Desire for Coalition Forces Withdrawal

Confusion surrounds the potential deployment of 1,500 US troops to Iraq, as reported by CBS News. The New Jersey Army National Guard was said to be joining the US-led coalition against ISIS, marking the largest deployment from the state since 2008. However, Iraq's military officials swiftly refuted the claims, insisting they "do not need any foreign forces."

Major General Tahsin al-Khafaji, head of Iraq's Security Media Cell, clarified that the current international coalition's role is limited to offering advice, training, and security information. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani reiterated this stance, emphasizing the ongoing work of a bilateral committee dedicated to setting a timeline for the complete withdrawal of coalition forces. This aligns with Iraq's long-held desire for self-sufficiency in security matters.

It's important to note the complex backdrop to this news. Drone attacks targeting US troops, allegedly perpetrated by Iran-backed militias, have recently flared up. These attacks stem from US support for Israel during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza, further straining relations between Washington and Baghdad. Additionally, US airstrikes against pro-Iran factions in Iraq, undertaken without Iraqi approval, further fuel tensions.

While the alleged deployment remains unconfirmed, Baghdad's firm stance on ending the foreign military presence reflects the country's commitment to establishing independent security capabilities and charting its own course. Ongoing negotiations between Iraq and the coalition will determine the ultimate timeline and modalities of the withdrawal, aiming to ensure a smooth transition and preserve stability in the region.