2008 Press Releases
Joint Statement by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General Ray Odierno on the Transfer of Security Responsibility for Wasit Province
The Embassy of the United States and Multi-National Force-Iraq congratulate the Government of Iraq on the transfer of security in Wasit Province to Iraqi responsibility as a positive step along the path to Iraq's self-reliance.
Wasit is the thirteenth province to be transferred to Iraqi security responsibility. The first provinces transferred to Government of Iraq security control were Muthanna, Dhi Qar, and An Najaf in 2006. Maysan, Irbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dahuk, Karbala and Basrah followed in 2007. This year Qadisiyah, Anbar and most recently, Babil have transitioned to Iraqi security control.
This achievement in Wasit Province means that more than two-thirds of Iraq’s provinces have assumed security responsibility.
Iraqi Security Forces in Wasit have been operating independently for the past several months. In working with local government and military officials, they have demonstrated their readiness to assume responsibility for the provincial security of Wasit. Today this responsibility is theirs.
The transition of responsibility for security in Wasit Province is an important step. The provincial and military leadership in Wasit will have to work cooperatively in order to maintain the security necessary for long term economic prosperity. We will assist as needed. The United States Embassy and Multi-National Force-Iraq congratulate the Government of Iraq on this important milestone.