Defense Ministry Denies Troop Withdrawal Between Tuz Khurmatu and Kirkuk, Citing Redeployment

The spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Defense, Major General Yahya Rasool, dismissed reports claiming the withdrawal of Iraqi army forces from military posts between Tuz Khurmatu district and Kirkuk province. In an official statement, Rasool clarified that the recent movements do not constitute a military pullout, but are rather part of routine operations involving troop redeployment, rotation, and maneuvers in accordance with approved defense plans. He added that the measures included reinforcing select positions with additional units to boost operational capability, emphasizing that all troop movements align with established military requirements and security priorities.