CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – The commander of U.S. forces in southern Iraq met with members of the press, Iraqi military and government officials to discuss the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraqi cities during the handover of Combat Outpost Majaar Al Kabir June 30.
Starting June 30, Iraqi citizens will see a reduced number of U.S. Soldiers in the major cities in accordance with the security agreement approved by the U.S. Government and the Government of Iraq in November 2008.
The agreement calls for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the major cities in Iraq by mid-2009 and a full withdrawal of U.S. forces by the end of 2011.
“Today is a historic occasion for Iraq,” said Maj. Gen. Rick Nash, commander, Multi-National Division – South, to members of the press and dignitaries including the governor of Maysan, Mr. Al-Sudani. “This is the day that U.S. combat forces leave cities throughout the country, in accordance with the security agreement with the Government of Iraq.”
U.S. forces also turned over operations at Combat Outpost Majaar Al Kabir to the 10th Iraqi Army Division.
“U.S. forces are vacating the compound here at Majaar Al Kabir so that local Iraqi units can occupy this site and operate independent of Coalition forces,” said Nash.
Although U.S. forces will no operate independently in Iraq’s major cities, the Iraqi people will still see U.S. Soldiers as they participate in civil engagements alongside the Iraqi Security Forces.
“Coalition forces will continue to conduct assessments on joint projects to increase the development of essential services for the people as we assist the Provincial Reconstruction Team’s efforts toward building civil capacity,” said Nash.
CF will still be seen in the cities as they advise, assist and train the ISF and escort the PRT, added Nash. These training and support operations will be jointly coordinated.
“June 30 marks an important milestone in the way forward for a peaceful and prosperous Iraq and the long-term strategic relationship between Iraq and the U.S.,” said Nash.
