The Japanese government has formally decided to withdraw Ground Self-Defense Force troops from Iraq. The decision reflects Tokyo's judgment that recent developments in the country -- the beginning of a formal government, appointment of three security ministers and the transfer of security powers to Iraq from British and Australian forces -- meet the conditions for withdrawal.
Japan has dispatched a total of 5,500 GSDF troops to Iraq through 10 rotations since 2004. In a press conference last week, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi praised the mission, saying, "GSDF activities have played a major role in rebuilding basic facilities for local residents and received a highly favorable reception from the Iraqi government and people."
The director general of the Defense Agency, Fukushiro Nukaga, has already issued a withdrawal order. Troops are expected to complete the pullout from their camp in Samawah in four to six weeks, bringing an end to a humanitarian mission that began 2 1/2 years ago.