Germany extends its military mission in Iraq by 15 months

This decision will enable the German government to send an additional 500 troops to Iraq during the extended period.

German parliament Bundestag in Berlin, Oct. 10, 2024. (Photo: AP)
German parliament Bundestag in Berlin, Oct. 10, 2024. (Photo: AP)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Germany's parliament has approved a 15-month extension of its military mission in Iraq, signaling continued support for counterterrorism efforts in the region. In a vote held on Thursday, 539 members of the Bundestag supported the extension, while 93 voted against it, and two abstained, according to the German news agency.

This decision will enable the German government to send an additional 500 troops to Iraq during the extended period. The German military's involvement in Iraq focuses primarily on training local forces and aiding efforts to prevent the resurgence of ISIS. The extension underscores Germany's commitment to stabilizing the region and supporting Iraq's security forces as they combat terrorist threats.

Germany has been a key partner in the international coalition against ISIS since 2014, contributing to military training and advisory programs to strengthen Iraq's defense capabilities. The continued presence of German troops is expected to bolster these efforts, ensuring ongoing cooperation in the fight against extremist groups.