UK Ends Combat Ops in Iraq

The United Kingdom, the closest ally to the United States during the Iraq war, has formally ceased combat operations in that country.

The Guardian brings provides video of the British transitioning southern Iraq to the United States.

“We are sad to leave our Iraqi friends, but we leave knowing we have done our job, done it well, and that we have prepared the ground for continued success for our friends and allies. We leave knowing that Basra is a better place now than it was in 2003.” (The Guardian)

SKY News reports on the mission winding down.

“On the final foot patrol it’s all soft hats, handshakes and easy-going manner. For those still alert, these soldiers know the war for them is as good as over. In Basra itself, Britain’s quick reaction force, without a serious alert for nearly six months, start dismounting their guns.” (SKY News)

One Times columnist offers this view of the operation…

"…few Basrawis will be shedding tears for the departing British Army. With too few troops to confront a full-scale Shia insurgency, as the Americans did with the Sunnis to the north, British Forces had to limit their role in the south, trying to train Iraqi Forces to take the lead in enforcing security." (London Times)

ITN reports on how it all began…

March the 19th, 2003. Early in the morning, explosions heard in downtown Baghdad. It had begun. George W. Bush’s troops taking on Saddam Hussein’s Iraq. Tony Blair’s military followed suit. ) Little did they know they’d still be there six years later.” (ITN)

The Times separately reports the British withdrawal means 500 layoffs at BAE Systems, Britain’s largest combat vehicle and weapon company.

179 British combat forces were killed in Iraq.

All but about 400 troops are expected to leave the country by July.

Check out The Guardian for more information about the fallen British soldiers and a slideshow timeline of the war.