Bundeswehr set to leave Erbil as Germany scales back Iraq mission

Germany plans to withdraw its remaining troops from Erbil, Iraq, and close its military field camp there by the end of September as part of a gradual reduction of its military presence in the Middle East, Der Spiegel reports.

Citing a briefing provided to the Bundestag's Defence Committee, the magazine said Germany currently has around 30 soldiers stationed at the camp near Erbil airport. The withdrawal comes after the United States moved to remove a protection force as part of its own drawdown plans, according to the report.

A German Defence Ministry spokesperson confirmed that a briefing had taken place, saying Berlin was planning a long-term reduction of its military footprint in Erbil, although no specific timeline or troop numbers were disclosed.

"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 said.

The official added that the decision was made in coordination with Germany's partners and was not based on the actions of any single ally.

"No single partner is decisive here. Rather, it is all of them together," the spokesperson told a press conference when asked whether US plans had influenced the move.

German troops have been stationed in Erbil for years as part of Berlin's contribution to the international coalition fighting the Islamic State (IS) group. Their mission has focused on training, advising, and supporting Kurdish Peshmerga forces.

The Bundeswehr field camp in Erbil has previously been targeted by rocket and drone attacks during periods of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. Germany has also reduced its regional military presence due to security concerns linked to the conflict.

By Vafa Guliyeva