France to lead NATO mission in Iraq, strengthening Franco-Iraqi defense cooperation

BAGHDAD — France is set to take command of NATO’s mission in Iraq this May, marking a significant milestone in Franco-Iraqi relations and signaling a new phase of strategic military cooperation between the two nations. This development follows a landmark defense agreement that includes France supplying Iraq with advanced combat helicopters.

The Iraqi Ministry of Defense announced the transition, emphasizing France’s pivotal role in leading NATO’s advisory mission. The mission is focused on enhancing Iraq’s military capabilities and fostering stability in the region.

Iraqi Defense Minister Thabet al-Abbasi recently visited France with a high-ranking military delegation to solidify these ties. During his visit, al-Abbasi met with French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu to discuss regional security, the role of international coalitions, and France’s upcoming leadership of NATO’s mission.

The discussions culminated in the signing of a significant defense agreement under which France will supply combat helicopters to the Iraqi Air Force. This initiative highlights the strengthening defense partnership between the two countries and their shared commitment to regional security.

NATO’s mission in Iraq, established in November 2018 at the request of the Iraqi government, has been strictly advisory. It provides strategic guidance to bolster Iraq’s security infrastructure without engaging in direct combat. Under France’s leadership, the mission will concentrate on supervising military exercises and supporting Iraq’s ongoing fight against ISIS, with an overarching goal of reinforcing the country’s defense systems.

This shift in leadership underscores France’s increasing role in Iraq and its commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East.