Germany to Withdraw Troops from Iraqi Kurdistan

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, German publication Der Spiegel has reported that Germany will close its military camp in the city of Erbil, located in northern Iraq, and withdraw its stationed soldiers from the region. This decision follows the United States’ move to reduce its forces.

Citing a meeting of the German parliament’s defense committee, the German publication stated that German soldiers are expected to vacate their camp in Erbil by the end of September. Approximately 30 German soldiers are currently stationed at this camp, situated near Erbil Airport.

A spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defense confirmed Berlin’s intention to reduce its troop numbers in the region over the long term. The spokesperson did not provide a specific timeline for this action or the exact number of personnel involved.

The spokesperson clarified, “We are only reducing our presence and will maintain essential support services, such as those provided to the Peshmerga. For this purpose, a team of military advisors will remain at the embassy.”

German soldiers have been stationed in Erbil for several years as part of Berlin’s contribution to the international coalition against ISIS, offering training, consultation, and support to the Kurdish Peshmerga forces.