Operation Inherent Resolve ends combat mission in Iraq

The End of the Combat Mission in Iraq

Operation Inherent Resolve has formally concluded its mission in its existing legal format. The international military coalition has ended its combat role against Daesh in Iraq.

This withdrawal follows a structured two-phase transition agreed upon jointly by Washington and Baghdad.

Origins of the International Coalition

The military coalition was initially formed in response to a formal request by the Iraqi government. Iraq’s permanent representative sent a letter to the United Nations Secretary-General calling on UN member states to provide assistance in fighting Daesh.

Following a United States initiative, the coalition was established to deliver combat airstrikes and train local security forces.

A Two-Phase Policy Shift

In September 2024, the United States announced plans to shift toward bilateral security relationships with Iraq. This policy shift led to a joint decision in 2025 to implement a two-phase transformation period.

The first phase concluded in September 2025, when the coalition’s combat mission formally ended. The second and final phase concluded today with the departure of coalition forces and equipment from military air bases in Iraq, including Erbil.

Latvian and Baltic Deployments

Latvia’s National Armed Forces participated in Operation Inherent Resolve starting in 2016 as part of the international counter-terrorism coalition.

Latvian personnel carried out training, mentoring, support, and intelligence-sharing tasks from the operation’s headquarters in Erbil, working alongside allied contingents and Iraqi security forces.

Allied Solidarity and Future Support

The Latvian Ministry of Defense stated that the country’s long-term participation in Operation Inherent Resolve served as a direct testament to Riga’s support and solidarity with the United States and other allied coalition members.

Alongside Latvia, other Baltic states also contributed personnel and resources to the multinational mission. The ministry confirmed that Latvia will continue to support U.S. and allied counter-terrorism efforts moving forward.