Iraq-US talks will resume to navigate path for deployed coalition forces

Iraq’s government announces discussions with the US will resume on Sunday to determine status of deployed coalition forces within its borders.

The government of Iraq stated on Thursday that discussions with the United States will resume on Sunday, hoping to map out the path of departure for the deployed coalition forces inside its borders. The “end of the mission,” as stressed by Iraqi authorities, is the ultimate goal of these talks, which have the potential to influence future foreign military participation in the country.

After three US military personnel were killed in a drone assault at a site in Jordan, the negotiations, which had been started on Jan. 27, came to an abrupt end. The US responded to the quick suspension with punitive actions that increased tensions and temporarily stopped diplomatic talks.

The foreign coalition’s role inside Iraq’s boundaries would be the main topic of discussion at the subsequent negotiations, the prime minister of Iraq’s military spokesperson, General Yehia Rasool, confirmed in a statement on Thursday. The dialogue’s return demonstrates Iraq’s will to advance and cultivate diplomatic ties with its foreign allies strategically.

Discussions that will take place when both sides meet again will have a significant impact on the security environment in the area, as well as the continuous fight against extremist threats in Iraq. In addition to determining the course of military cooperation between the US and Iraq, the result of these discussions will mark a turning point in Iraq’s quest for stability and sovereignty on its territory.

Source: AFP