Italy ends 12-year military presence in Iraq

Italy has concluded its 12-year military presence in Iraq following the departure of its final personnel on September 29. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed the withdrawal, noting that the move aligns with an agreement reached with the Baghdad government and follows a schedule set for completion by September 30.

Italian forces had been participating in non-combat roles, including capacity-building activities under the NATO Mission Iraq and supporting the US-led Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS. While the majority of personnel were withdrawn following an airstrike on a military base in the Kurdistan Region in March 2026, a minimal security presence will remain. Two Italian Carabinieri personnel will stay in the country to continue their work as part of the European Union mission in Iraq, operating with the approval of the Iraqi government.