Iraq and International Partners Collaborate in Counterterrorism Efforts – Breaking News
The Ministry of National Defense (MSB) held their Weekly Press Briefing where they discussed the upcoming “High Level Security Mechanism” meeting with Iraq. Ministry sources provided insights into the agenda of the meeting and answered questions from the media.
The High-Level Security Mechanism meeting between Turkey and Iraq was established after a consensus was reached during a visit by the then Prime Minister of Iraq, Adil Abdul-Mahdi, to Turkey in May 2019. This meeting aims to strengthen the military and security cooperation between the two countries. The first meeting of this format was held in 2019, and the second meeting took place in Ankara on December 19, 2023. During this meeting, Iraq officially acknowledged the terrorist organization PKK as a ‘common threat’ for the first time. Both countries are committed to enhancing their cooperation in the fight against terrorism, and the fourth meeting of the High-Level Security Mechanism is scheduled to take place in Ankara today.
In addition, Ministry sources provided information about the establishment of the 16th Main Jet Base Command in Muğla/Dalaman and the Amphibious Corps in Çanakkale. These decisions were made to meet the operational needs of the Turkish Armed Forces and to update the force structure plans accordingly. The 16th Main Jet Base Command in Dalaman will enhance support for the aviation sector and fulfill military aviation requirements. On the other hand, the Amphibious Corps in Çanakkale was established to reorganize Marine Infantry Units and effectively utilize amphibious elements in various regions.
Overall, the Ministry of National Defense is focused on strengthening cooperation with Iraq, updating force structure plans, and enhancing military capabilities to ensure national security and defense.
