The Finnish Defence Forces' participation in the OIR operation in Iraq has ended

The Finnish Defence Forces' participation in Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) has ended on 31 December 2024. At the time of the decision, the strength of Finland's Crisis Management Force in Iraq (SKJI) was approximately 70 soldiers. The Finnish personnel returned to Finland on Sunday, 29 December 2024.

Operation Inherent Resolve

Operation Inherent Resolve was established in 2014 on the initiative of the United States to combat the rapid and violent spread of the terrorist organization ISIS (Daesh) and other extremist organizations in Syria and Iraq. The main objective of the operation was to prevent the advance of ISIS and eliminate its combat capability. The aim was also to stabilize the region, provide humanitarian aid and support the local security forces. 

Finland joined OIR with a branch of about 50 people in August 2015. The task of the Finns was to act as advisors and train Kurdish Peshmerga troops in the fight against ISIS. At the time of completion, Finland has been performing demanding training, counselling, safety and personnel tasks for almost ten years. Around a thousand Finns served in Iraq, most of whom were reservists.

”I would like to thank the soldiers who have participated in the operation over the years. The work you have done in challenging conditions has been fruitful and appreciated, says Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations,” Lieutenant General Kari Nisula.

Finnish influence will be visible in the region for a long time to come

The Finnish troops returned to Finland from Iraq and the three-tongued flag used during the operation were received by the Army's Chief of Operations, Brigadier General Sami-Antti Takamaa. Takamaa received the troops at the Pori Brigade's crisis management centre in Säkylä. The flag will later be handed over to the Military Museum. 

“The effects of Finnish training can still be seen as the capability and competence of the trained troops develops, which is important for the long-term security of the region. Most peshmergas still remember the training we gave them, and they tell us that every time they meet Finns,“ says Takamaa.

The operation was established in response to the rise of ISIS and its crimes against humanity, as well as the rise of international terrorism and its impact globally. ISIS has lost most of its territory in recent years, but it continues to operate and the fight against terrorism in the region continues. 

“Even if Finland's participation in the OIR operation ends, Finland's influence will be visible in the region for a long time to come. The training we provide will enable the security forces in the region to better secure their territory and ensure the safety of the local population. This reduces the ability of extremist groups to control areas, which promotes regional stability and the fight against terrorism,” says Takamaa.

When the situation partially stabilized in 2019, Finland's participation changed from education to full-time safety and counselling activities. Advisors have supported tactical and operational training and security development for Iraqi regional forces. 

“As elsewhere, including in Iraq, Finns are highly valued and respected partners. The professionalism, positive attitude and friendliness of Finns are appreciated both by professional soldiers from other countries and by the local population. Finland's contribution to the operation has supported the efforts to stabilize the region and defeat ISIS, and the work of our soldiers will be visible in the region for a long time to come," Takamaa promises.

Finland continues to participate in NATO's operation in Iraq

Although participation in the OIR operation will end, Finland will continue to support and develop Iraq's security sector. The Finnish Defence Forces continue to participate in NATO's mission in Iraq (NMI). The purpose of the advisory is to work with the Iraqis to create comprehensive and long-term reforms of the armed forces and their administration. Reforms support the development of Iraq's security environment.

"Finnish experts have long been involved in the development of the security sector, which helps Iraq and the other countries in the region to create stable and fair institutions. Advisory activities have been and will continue to be an important part of the long-term stabilisation of the region, and Finland will continue its work in this important NATO-led operation in the region," Takamaa sums up.