Germany will withdraw its troops from the northern Iraqi city of Irbil and close a field camp there by the end of September, following US moves to remove a protection force as part of its own drawdown plans, Spiegel reported on Friday, citing a parliamentary defense committee briefing. Currently, around 30 German soldiers are stationed at the camp on the edge of the airport in Irbil, the magazine added.
Reduced Presence Due to Iran War Security Risks
Germany has already sharply reduced its presence in the Middle East due to security risks posed by the Iran war. A German defense ministry spokesperson confirmed that a briefing had taken place and that Germany was planning to reduce the number of soldiers there over the long term, without giving specific details on timing or numbers involved.
“I want to emphasize that we are merely reducing our footprint; vital support services, such as those for the Peshmerga, will be maintained. To this end, a team of military advisers will remain at the embassy,” the spokesperson added.
Background of German Mission in Irbil
German troops have been stationed in Irbil for years as part of Berlin’s contribution to the international coalition against Islamic State. Their mission has focused on providing training, advice, and support to Kurdish Peshmerga forces. The withdrawal marks a significant shift in Germany's military engagement in Iraq.
When asked if the US plans had contributed to the move, the spokesperson said the decision was taken in coordination with partners. “No single partner is decisive here. Rather, it is all of them together,” the spokesperson told a press conference.
