German Defense Minister Pistorius Cancels Iraq Trip Citing Security Concerns
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has postponed his visit to Iraq following reports of violence against the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad. The Federal Criminal Police Office, responsible for the Minister’s protection, recommended the postponement due to the protests and worsening situation in the city.
During his planned visit, Minister Pistorius was set to meet German soldiers serving in the NATO unit fighting against terrorist organization DAESH, as well as the Iraqi Defense Minister. The purpose of the visit was to assess the situation on the ground before the extension of the German army’s mission in Iraq.
The German government is planning to extend the mandate of the mission in Iraq in the coming fall. Currently, a total of 130 German soldiers are stationed in Iraq, with 90 in the north and 45 in the center of the country.
It is worth noting that the German Embassy in Baghdad, located outside the Green Zone, has so far remained unaffected by the violent protests. The decision to postpone the visit was made in order to ensure the safety of German personnel in light of the escalating situation in the city.
