NATO pulls security advisory mission out of Iraq after Iranian attacks on European bases

PBS NewsHour
by Associated Press
March 20, 2026
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3 min read

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The Bottom Line

NATO has withdrawn its security advisory mission from Iraq after Iranian attacks on British, French, and Italian military bases in northern Iraq.

How This Affects You

NATO's withdrawal may reduce stability in Iraq and could embolden ISIS remnants, affecting counterterrorism operations and regional security that impact U.S. military deployments.

AI Summary

NATO has withdrawn its security advisory mission from Iraq and relocated several hundred personnel to Europe following Iranian attacks on British, French, and Italian military bases in northern Iraq. The Iranian strikes targeted allied forces that had been supporting Iraqi security forces in the counter-ISIS mission. The pullout represents a significant setback to NATO's training and advisory efforts in Iraq, which have been central to the coalition's strategy to prevent ISIS resurgence in the region. Iran's attacks underscore escalating regional tensions and Tehran's willingness to directly target Western military presence in Iraq. The withdrawal may complicate ongoing efforts to stabilize Iraq and could embolden ISIS remnants operating in the country.

What's Being Done

NATO relocated several hundred personnel to Europe in response to Iranian attacks on allied bases.

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