Recently, Lieutenant General Lucas Schreurs of the Netherlands took over as the new commander of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) in a ceremony held in Baghdad. He succeeded Lieutenant General Jose Antonio Aguero Martinez, who had been leading the mission since May 2023.
Schreurs expressed his honor and privilege in leading the NMI, emphasizing the mission’s goal of building safety and security in Iraq. He highlighted the importance of empowering advisors to meet the needs of Iraqi counterparts with guidance and support.
Martinez stressed the vital role of NATO advisors who possess specialized expertise and maintain close communication with Iraqi counterparts. The NMI’s advisory and capacity-building operation aims to help Iraq strengthen its security forces and institutions, promote national stability, combat terrorism, and prevent the resurgence of ISIS.
With full respect for Iraq’s sovereignty, the NMI works hand in hand with the government to achieve these objectives. The commitment to enhancing security and stability in Iraq remains a top priority for NATO in their ongoing mission.