By Isha Sesay • Published: 05 Jan 2020 • 14:29
There are some 500 Spanish soldiers stationed in Iraq at present. Credit: The Leader.
THE Spanish Government has revealed today (January 5) that they will make an imminent decision on Spain’s military position in Iraq.
After US President Donald Trump ordered an air strike on Baghdad airport to execute the Iranian General Qasem Soleimaini, questions have been raised about what action will be taken in regards to the Spanish troops who are on the ground.
At present, there are some 500 Spanish soldiers taking part in mission training of Iraqi forces which has formed part of an international coalition against terrorism where the soldiers are stationed in Baghdad, Taji and Besmayah. As Euro Weekly News understands, the training programme was due to end in two weeks’ time.
However, yesterday, NATO strongly urged that all training activities should be temporarily suspended, a decision that the German Government has already followed. For this reason, the Ministry of Defence are now examining the dangers posed to the Spanish troops, where it is said that the government will take the appropriate measures to ensure their security.
Acting Minister Margarita Robles has also stated that she is in continued contact with the Chief of Staff tasked with leading the troops in Iraq and that the rising tensions in the country is being heavily monitored back in Spain.
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