In a significant development highlighting evolving relations between Turkiye and Iraq, Turkiye has agreed to the gradual handover of the Bashiqa military base to Iraqi authorities. This decision marks an important step in addressing longstanding concerns over sovereignty and military presence in the region.
The announcement was made following high-level discussions between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani al-Zaidi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) sessions. Both leaders pledged to deepen their security cooperation and enhance bilateral ties in the face of regional challenges.
The Bashiqa base, located near Mosul in northern Iraq, has been a focal point of contention between the two countries. Established initially to train Iraqi forces and combat extremist groups, the Turkish military presence there has drawn protest from Baghdad over issues of national sovereignty.
Turkish President Erdogan emphasized the importance of continued collaboration against terrorism and vowed to support Iraq’s stability while respecting the nation’s autonomy. Prime Minister al-Zaidi echoed these sentiments, welcoming a phased transfer that respects Iraq’s authority over its territory.
This agreement signals a strategic shift toward mutual understanding and cooperation, rooted in respecting each nation’s sovereignty while addressing shared security threats such as ISIS remnants and cross-border terrorism.
Enhanced security cooperation discussed at UNGA includes intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and coordinated counterterrorism operations. Leaders expressed optimism about the potential for regional peace and stability stemming from these initiatives.
Experts suggest that this mutual understanding could pave the way for broader diplomatic and economic ties between Turkiye and Iraq. Increased dialogue and collaboration might strengthen infrastructure projects, trade partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
The handover process is expected to occur gradually, ensuring an orderly transition that maintains stability within northern Iraq and prevents security vacuums. Both parties have agreed to establish a joint oversight mechanism to monitor progress and resolve any emerging issues.
Regional observers view the agreement as a positive indicator of Turkiye’s commitment to respecting Iraq’s sovereignty, which may reduce tensions with other regional powers and support broader peace efforts in the Middle East.
This development also aligns with global diplomatic calls for countries to resolve conflicts through dialogue and cooperation instead of prolonged military standoffs.
As the Bashiqa base handover proceeds, ongoing communication and trust-building between Turkiye and Iraq will be critical in sustaining momentum toward long-term security and partnership.
Prime Minister al-Zaidi and President Erdogan’s pledge at the UNGA underscores a shared vision: a more stable, secure region achieved through collaboration rather than confrontation. Observers remain hopeful that this new chapter in Turkiye-Iraq relations will contribute positively to regional peace and development.
