Baghdad: The Iraqi Ministry of Defence announced that the US military has completed its withdrawal from Ain al-Asad Airbase, allowing Iraqi forces to take over operations and security responsibilities.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Army Lt.-Gen. Abdul Amir Yarallah visited the base to oversee the redistribution of tasks and duties among the various military branches and formations. The Ministry stated that the Chief of Staff closely monitored the stages of assuming responsibility for the security file through his field supervision of the deployment of military units and formations within the base. He also directed the relevant authorities at the base to intensify efforts, strengthen joint work, and enhance coordination and cooperation among all units responsible for securing the base.
Ain al-Asad Air Base is recognized as the second-largest air base in Iraq and has served as a headquarters for US forces for 22 years, transitioning from combat missions to training and advisory roles over time.