Former US Ambassador Khalilzad Warns US Withdrawal Could Test Iraq's Security and US-Kurdistan Ties
Former US Ambassador to Iraq, Zalmay Khalilzad, has issued a warning regarding the implications of the US-led Coalition's withdrawal from Iraq. Speaking on Kurdistan24's Basi Roj program, Khalilzad stated that the success of this new phase in Washington-Baghdad relations hinges on Iraq's ability to independently manage emerging security threats and the continued strength of the strategic relationship between Washington, Baghdad, and the Kurdistan Region. He expressed concerns about the readiness of Iraqi forces, drawing parallels to the previous US withdrawal under President Barack Obama, which preceded the rise of ISIS. Khalilzad emphasized that while confidence in Iraqi forces is important, preparations for potential scenarios where they might not be able to manage renewed threats are crucial. He also highlighted the strategic importance of the Kurdistan Region to the United States, citing a long and strong relationship, particularly with the US military, dating back to Operation Provide Comfort.
