The U.N. Security Council unanimously voted to terminate the U.N. political mission in Iraq, established in 2003 after the U.S.-led invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein. The mission aimed to coordinate post-conflict humanitarian and reconstruction efforts and assist in reinstating a representative government in Iraq.
The Iraqi government requested the council to conclude the mission by the end of 2025, as per a letter dated May 8. The resolution extends the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) for a final 19 months until December 31, 2025, when all operations will cease.
The resolution tasks Secretary-General Antonio Guterres with preparing a transition and liquidation plan in consultation with the Iraqi government by December 31, 2024, to facilitate the transfer of responsibilities and withdrawal of staff and assets by UNAMI.
The council expressed support for Iraq's efforts in stabilizing the country, particularly in combating the Islamic State group and al-Qaida extremists. Despite the defeat of the Islamic State group by a U.S.-led coalition in 2017, sleeper cells remain active in Iraq and Syria.
As Iraq aims to wind down the military coalition against the Islamic State, the resolution aligns with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's assertion that Iraqi security forces can handle the remaining extremist threats independently.
The resolution also backs Iraq's reform initiatives to combat corruption, uphold human rights, provide essential services, generate employment, and diversify the economy. UNAMI is tasked with supporting the government in preparing for upcoming elections and resolving outstanding issues with Kuwait.
Furthermore, UNAMI is authorized to aid in the return of internally displaced Iraqis, provide healthcare and other services, promote economic development, ensure accountability, and protect human rights through judicial and legal reforms.
The resolution's unanimous adoption was welcomed by U.S. deputy ambassador Robert Wood, emphasizing the need to realign UNAMI's mission to support a secure, stable, and sovereign Iraq. Russia's deputy U.N. ambassador, Anna Evstigneeva, highlighted Moscow's support for Iraq's sovereignty and opposition to external interference in the country's internal affairs.
