In a statement to AFP, a spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defense confirmed that a group of troops had been withdrawn from Hewlêr (Erbil), describing the move as a “precautionary measure” involving a two-digit number of personnel who were not essential to the mission.
According to the German weekly magazine Der Spiegel, the soldiers were transported by air to Jordan. The German army (Bundeswehr) had already reduced its presence in southern Kurdistan at the beginning of February. Germany provides support to Iraqi security forces as part of the NATO mission.
The Ministry of Defense stated that “the protection and safety of German troops is a priority.”
It was reported that only the personnel necessary to maintain the camp’s command structure will remain in Hewlêr, while a small number of troops continue to serve as advisors in the capital, Baghdad.
According to Der Spiegel, there are currently around 300 German soldiers in Iraq and Jordan combined. The majority of these troops are stationed in Jordan and support the international anti-terror coalition with aerial refueling aircraft.
Developments in the region have led to a new wave of tension, particularly as the United States increases its military buildup in the Gulf. Several American media outlets claim that attacks could begin as early as the weekend.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that there are “many reasons and arguments” for a potential military intervention against Iran, while Washington noted that it would be “in Tehran’s own interest” to reach an agreement regarding its nuclear program. Iran, however, continues to defend its right to nuclear enrichment.
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