Dutch Defence Ministry Deploys Additional Troops and Helicopters to Iraq for NATO Mission
The Dutch Ministry of Defence has announced its commitment to send approximately 120 soldiers and three transport helicopters to Iraq as part of its NATO mission in the country. This decision comes as the Netherlands aims to bolster its support for stability and security efforts in the region.
Following discussions within the Dutch government, Commander of the Armed Forces, Onno Eichelsheim, took to social media, stating that the Netherlands "wants to contribute more" to the mission in Iraq. This commitment reflects the nation's dedication to fostering stability and combating threats in the region.
Het kabinet wil meer bijdragen aan de @NATO-missie in #Irak. Naast een Force Commander met stafcapaciteit, levert @Defensie een detachement met drie #Chinook-transporthelikopters van de @Kon_Luchtmacht. 👉 https://t.co/TQomaPA0JM pic.twitter.com/cOIgSlcJGR
— Generaal Onno Eichelsheim (@CDS_Defensie) September 29, 2023
The transport helicopters, specifically three Chinook helicopters, will play a crucial role in logistical operations within the mission. The Dutch Defence Ministry explained in a statement that the helicopter detachment's primary responsibilities include supplying units and facilitating the movement of advisors, troops, and equipment, underscoring the nation's commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of the mission.
The Netherlands has been a steadfast member of the US-led global coalition against the Islamic State (ISIS) since its formation in 2014, which came in response to the extremist group's seizure of significant territories in Syria and Iraq. Dutch troops have been actively involved in training both Kurdish Peshmerga forces and Iraqi soldiers, contributing to the collective efforts to counter the threat posed by ISIS.
This latest deployment builds upon the Dutch government's ongoing commitment to the region. In 2021, Amsterdam dispatched an additional 150 soldiers to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and in July of the same year, the Dutch government announced plans to send an infantry unit comprising 145 soldiers to Iraq, scheduled to arrive at the beginning of 2024.
The Netherlands' increased involvement in the NATO mission reaffirms its dedication to promoting stability, security, and peace in Iraq and the broader Middle East region.
