Spain to move troops from Iraq amid widening Iran conflict

Spain plans to evacuate and redeploy its troops from Iraq in the coming days as the conflict involving Iran spreads across the Gulf region.

According to Defence Minister Margarita Robles, around 300 troops are involved. They serve both in the international coalition against Islamic State and in the NATO mission. Some special forces personnel have already been redeployed after training activities were suspended.

The security situation is deteriorating. A recent drone strike in northern Iraq reportedly killed French soldiers.

Other NATO countries are taking similar precautions. Germany has temporarily relocated some of its troops from Erbil, while Norway is redeploying part of its contingent as security risks increase.

The confrontation between the US, Israel and Iran is increasingly affecting neighbouring countries, including Iraq, where coalition bases have been targeted by drone and rocket attacks in recent days. There is no sign yet of de-escalation.

(reuters, mja)