Turkey to Gradually Handover Bashiqa-Zilkan Military Base to Iraq
What happened
Turkey announced on September 23, 2026, its agreement to gradually transfer control of the Bashiqa-Zilkan military base in northern Iraq to the Iraqi federal government.
The Context
- Security Cooperation: The handover is part of a broader effort to enhance Iraqi sovereignty and address shared security concerns, particularly regarding armed groups like the PKK.
- Historical Tensions: Established in 2015, the Bashiqa base has been a point of contention between Turkey and Iraq, with up to 600 Turkish troops stationed there.
- Recent Developments: The agreement follows the PKK's disarmament in May 2025 and Iraq's initiatives to restore federal authority in disputed areas.
The Number
— This is the approximate number of Turkish soldiers deployed at the Bashiqa base since 2015, highlighting the scale of military presence and its implications for regional stability.
Takeaway
As the handover progresses, expect ongoing shifts in security dynamics that could influence investment and operational strategies in Iraq.
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Turkey agrees to hand over Bashiqa military camp to Iraq
Turkey has agreed to gradually hand over the Bashiqa military camp in northern Iraq to the Iraqi government, a decision reached through discussions between Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. This transfer is part ...
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Turkey to hand over military base to Iraq
Turkey has announced plans to gradually transfer control of its Bashiqa military base in northern Iraq to the Iraqi government, a decision made in collaboration with Baghdad. This move is aimed at strengthening the authority of the Iraqi state and ad...
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Turkey to hand over military base to Iraq
Turkey has announced plans to gradually transfer control of its Bashiqa military base in northern Iraq to the Iraqi government, a decision made in collaboration with Baghdad. This move is aimed at strengthening the authority of the Iraqi state and ad...
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Turkey has announced plans to gradually transfer control of its Bashiqa military base in northern Iraq to Baghdad, a decision made in collaboration with the Iraqi government. This move is intended to bolster the authority of the Iraqi state and mitig...
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