Extension of the Bundeswehr mission in Iraq (recommendation)

The Bundestag has decided on the continuation of the Bundeswehr's deployment in Iraq and approved a motion from the federal government entitled "Continuation of the deployment of armed German forces - ensuring stabilization, preventing the resurgence of IS, promoting reconciliation in Iraq". The application proposes to extend the deployment as part of the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) for another year (this was last done by roll-call vote on October 17, 2024). The aim is to help stabilize the country and prevent the terrorist organization “Islamic State” (IS) from resurgent. It is planned to deploy up to 500 soldiers who will, among other things, train and advise the Iraqi armed forces and security forces and take on tasks such as air transport, air traffic surveillance and reconnaissance. The Federal Government points out that the international presence is still necessary and expressly desired by the Iraqi government. The terrorist organization is trying to create new retreat areas, particularly in border and disputed regions in northern Iraq. The federal government estimates the additional operational expenditure for the period from February 1, 2026 to January 31, 2027 at around 109 million euros. In its recommendation for a resolution, the Foreign Affairs Committee recommends approval of the application. There is also a report from the Budget Committee, according to which the deployment is compatible with the federal budget situation. The Foreign Affairs Committee's recommendation for a resolution was voted on by name. This was approved with 389 yes votes. There were 187 votes against and one abstention from Rainer Rothfuß (AfD parliamentary group). It was thus decided to extend the Bundeswehr's deployment in Iraq.