The mission told Rudaw in a statement that it contributes to Iraq’s security and regional stability by supporting security education, logistics, cyber defense, and good governance, in coordination with Iraqi authorities. It emphasized that all activities are conducted in full respect of Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The NMI said its role is non-combat and focused on advising and capacity-building to support Iraq’s security institutions and prevent the return of Islamic State (ISIS).
Established in October 2018 at Baghdad’s request, the NATO Mission Iraq is a non-combat advisory mission aimed at strengthening Iraq’s defense and security institutions.
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According to NATO, it seeks to help Iraq develop more sustainable, transparent, and effective security forces capable of countering terrorism, particularly the ISIS threat.
The mission includes personnel from all NATO member states, as well as partner countries Austria and Australia.
In December, Germany’s Defense Ministry - a major contributor to the NMI - said its forces would remain deployed in Iraq for an additional 12 months to help stabilize the country and prevent an ISIS resurgence, noting that the mandate then expires on January 31, 2026.
An unnamed NATO official told Iraqi state media in September 2025 that the alliance had agreed with Iraq’s defense ministry on a set of long-term goals to build stronger and more reliable forces, contributing to the country’s security and stability.