The United Nations Security Council has unanimously voted to terminate the UN political mission in Iraq that was established in 2003 after the U.S.-led invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein. The mission was set up to coordinate post-conflict humanitarian and reconstruction efforts and assist in reinstating a representative government in the country.
In response to a request from the Iraqi government in a letter dated May 8, the council has extended 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, sponsored by the United States, calls for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to develop a transition and liquidation plan in consultation with the Iraqi government by December 31, 2024, to facilitate the transfer of tasks and withdrawal of staff and assets from UNAMI.
The Security Council expressed its support for Iraq's ongoing stabilization efforts, particularly in combating the Islamic State group and al-Qaida extremists and their affiliates. Despite the defeat of the Islamic State group by a U.S.-led military coalition in 2017 in Iraq and 2019 in Syria, sleeper cells of the extremist group remain active in both countries.
As Iraq aims to wind down the military coalition formed to combat the Islamic State, the resolution acknowledges the Iraqi government's assertion that its security forces are capable of handling the remaining threats without the need for the coalition's presence.
The resolution also backs Iraq's reform initiatives to combat corruption, uphold human rights, provide essential services, generate employment opportunities, and diversify the economy. It tasks UNAMI with focusing on advising and supporting the government in preparations for upcoming free elections and resolving outstanding issues between Iraq and Kuwait.
Furthermore, UNAMI is authorized to assist in the return of internally displaced Iraqis and those in Syria, offer healthcare and other services, promote economic development, ensure accountability, and safeguard human rights through judicial and legal reforms.
The resolution's adoption was welcomed by U.S. officials, emphasizing the need for a smooth conclusion of UNAMI's operations to support a secure, stable, and sovereign Iraq. Russia also supported the resolution, highlighting the importance of aligning UNAMI's priorities with Iraq's needs in its final phase.
