US Soldiers Burn Items at Iraqi Base Ahead of Handover to Local Forces

In preparation for a March 17 base transfer ceremony with the Iraqi Security Forces, US Army soldiers burned materials and packed up equipment in Al-Qa’im, Iraq, video taken on March 7 shows.

According to the US-led Coalition operating in Iraq, the Army’s presence in Al-Qa’im was drawn down after the successful joint campaign with Iraqi Security Forces to dislodge Islamic State fighters in the country.

Brig Gen Vincent Barker said in a March 17 statement, “Today marks a historic moment for the Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and our Iraqi Security Partners. Al Qaim served as a critical location in the fight against Daesh. First, as the Iraqi Security Forces liberated the Al Qaim region from an evil presence, and later as a valuable base during the Battle for Baghouz, the last physical territory held by ISIS. Today’s transfer is possible thanks to the efforts and successes of our ISF partners.”

In the statement, the Coalition said it will “relocate and consolidate personnel and equipment from several Iraqi bases throughout 2020.” Credit: US Army via Storyful