Iraqi lawmaker says coalition forces no longer needed, pushes compulsory military service bill

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A member of the Iraqi parliament's Security and Defense Committee said Iraq no longer requires the presence of international coalition forces on its territory, asserting that the country's security forces are fully prepared to defend its borders. Sikkar al-Muhammadawi said the committee is working to advance a compulsory military service bill that has completed its first reading in parliament. Muhammadawi said the Defense Ministry needs younger personnel to replace those who have served for many years and that voluntary recruitment should be opened to address the shortfall. He noted the legislation would require government approval of financial allocations and completion of the parliamentary process before it could take effect. The committee member said lawmakers are determined to push the bill through its next stage. Parliament Speaker Hebbet al-Halbousi had previously endorsed the draft following meetings in April with senior army commanders. The issue of compulsory military service has been raised repeatedly since 2003 but has not completed the legislative process.