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NATO Mission Iraq (NMI)

After years of U.S.-led coalition operations in Iraq, NATO formally established NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) in 2018, but with a non-combat focus. Unlike previous military campaigns, NMI’s role is to train, advise, and build Iraqi security institutions, ensuring the country’s forces can sustain counterterrorism and internal stability efforts. This mission represents NATO’s shift toward capacity-building, applying lessons from Afghanistan’s failed state-building processwhile balancing the complexities of a region still influenced by Iranian-backed militias and sectarian divides.

History

  • Post-ISIS Security Challenges (2017–2018): Following the territorial defeat of ISIS in Iraq, the country faced the challenge of rebuilding its security forces and institutions to prevent a resurgence of extremist threats. The Iraqi government requested NATO assistance to develop its military capacity.
  • Establishment of NMI (2018): In July 2018, NATO leaders agreed to launch the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), an expanded advisory and training mission, building on previous NATO training efforts in Iraq.
  • Evolution and Expansion (2019–Present): The mission has grown in scope, incorporating military education reform, defense institution-building, and enhanced cooperation with Iraqi forces. In 2021, at the request of the Iraqi government, NATO agreed to expand NMI’s personnel and activities.

Major Characteristics, Initiatives, and Important Facts

  • Non-Combat Mission: NMI is not engaged in combat operations but focuses on advisory and training roles.
  • Advisory Role: Works with the Iraqi Ministry of Defense, the Office of the National Security Advisor, and other defense institutions.
  • Training and Capacity Building: Supports Iraqi military academies, enhances leadership education, and strengthens defense planning.
  • Counterterrorism Support: Aims to ensure Iraq’s security forces can prevent the resurgence of ISIS and other extremist groups.
  • Multinational Composition: Includes personnel from NATO member states and partner countries who work alongside Iraqi forces.
  • Coordination with Other International Efforts: Works in parallel with the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, the United Nations, and the European Union.

Since 2018, through its advising and capacity-building efforts, NATO Mission Iraq has contributed to make Iraqi security forces, institutions and structures more effective, inclusive and sustainable for the long term. I congratulate our Iraqi partners and NMI’s leadership and personnel for the excellent level of cooperation developed, in several domains, including security education, logistics, cyber defence, and good governance. Together we have achieved a lot through our NATO-Iraq partnership. Upon request from the Iraqi authorities and in full respect of Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we are evolving the scope of our activities, in support to Iraq’s ongoing efforts towards lasting security and stability for all of its citizens. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, February 2025 visit to Iraq

Links

  • NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) Official Page
  • NATO’s Role in Iraq
  • Iraqi Government Request for NATO Assistance (2018)