Washington: 'Iron Resolve' Success a Real Victory for Collective Efforts to Combat 'ISIS'

The United States confirmed early Saturday that the success of Operation “Resolute Resolve,” which concluded in Iraq last Wednesday, represents a “real victory” for collective efforts to combat the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

This statement came from the U.S. Department of State, coinciding with a meeting of political directors and senior officials from the international coalition against ISIS, hosted by the Italian capital, Rome, on Friday.

The statement noted that the international coalition congratulated Iraq and Syria on the success of Operation “Resolute Resolve” in weakening ISIS, adding that the conclusion of the operation’s mandate in Iraq also signals the Iraqi government’s resolve to continue bearing its responsibility to ensure that ISIS cannot regroup from Iraqi territory.

According to the statement, the coalition emphasized the importance of Syria as a partner in working to reduce the threat posed by the group, noting that achieving lasting security in both countries requires strengthening inclusive, sovereign government institutions capable of representing and protecting all local communities, enabling them to participate equally in their country’s future.

The U.S. State Department stated that participants in the Rome meeting reaffirmed the coalition’s role as a tool for enhancing stability in Iraq and Syria, and that international support should focus on strengthening both countries’ capacities to target ISIS and prevent the divisions that the group has historically exploited.

Coalition members expressed their readiness to work closely with the Syrian and Iraqi governments to achieve these goals, while announcing commitments totaling more than $75 million to support counterterrorism needs in Syria, increase detention center capacity, and maintain health and sanitation services for displaced persons and detainees in both Iraq and Syria.