UPDATE: Italy is urgently withdrawing its remaining troops from the military base in Erbil, Iraq, following a missile strike that occurred earlier today. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed this decision, emphasizing that the drawdown had been planned prior to the attack, which did not result in casualties among Italian personnel.
According to Crosetto, all Italian troops are safe after moving to secure areas as part of pre-established security protocols. The Italian military has already brought back 102 personnel to Italy and relocated approximately 40 others to Jordan. The remaining troops are expected to leave by land, likely through Türkiye, due to logistical complexities that prevent direct air transport.
In comments made to Italian public broadcaster RAI, Crosetto indicated that the attack on the facility, a known NATO base that also supports US infrastructure, was likely deliberate. He noted that the potential for such an attack had been anticipated, leading to the implementation of security measures earlier in the day.
This incident comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly following US and Israeli strikes that began on February 28. These actions have prompted Iranian retaliation, raising concerns about broader conflict that could impact coalition forces in Iraq, including Hungarian troops stationed at the Erbil base.
The ongoing situation underscores the heightened risk for allied contingents in the area. As the drawdown continues, authorities are closely monitoring developments for any further escalation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.
