New commander appointed to US-led International Coalition in North and East Syria and Iraq
BAGHDAD — In a formal ceremony held on Tuesday in Baghdad, US Major General Joel Vowell has assumed the role of Commander of the U.S.-led International Coalition tasked with combating the Islamic State (ISIS). Major General Vowell succeeds Major General Matthew McFarlane in this pivotal role, as confirmed by a statement from the Coalition.
During his inaugural address as the new commander, Maj. Gen. Vowell remarked, “Our mission remains steadfast at the forefront of freedom. We are committed to relentlessly combatting ISIS until its complete defeat, and to assist and empower our partners until their sovereignty is achieved.”
Maj. Gen. Vowell affirmed the continued support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of North and East Syria, specifying that this assistance will encompass advisory and operational support.
“As the Coalition’s allied capacities continue to grow, the Joint Task Force will pivot towards providing advisory expertise, operational aid, and capacity-building to our partner forces. This approach will guarantee the downfall of ISIS and establish the foundation for enduring regional stability,” Maj. Gen. Vowell stated.