Iraq and Germany discuss drawdown of international coalition forces in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi met Monday in Baghdad with German Forces Abroad Commander Gunter Schneider to discuss the planned withdrawal of U.S.-led international coalition forces from Iraq. The two officials reviewed the coalition's drawdown timeline and field arrangements, with both sides describing the meeting as part of broader coordination on the troop pullout. The Iraqi government has been conducting diplomatic contacts aimed at ending foreign military presence in the country in phases, according to Iraqi officials. Germany, a NATO ally contributing troops and training support to the U.S.-led coalition, has been a key partner in the mission and is directly affected by the withdrawal schedule. Following the talks, both sides said consultations would continue to safeguard shared security interests. No further details on the timeline or specific arrangements were immediately available.