Seven Bulgarian servicemen, who participated in NATO’s non-combat mission in Iraq, have returned to Bulgaria, the Defence Ministry said. They were welcomed by the Chief of Defence, Admiral Emil Eftimov.
Following the escalation of the conflict in the Persian Gulf, NATO temporarily adjusted the deployment of the mission to ensure the safety and security of the contingents and to successfully continue the advisory and capacity-building tasks for the Iraqi Armed Forces and security institutions, the Ministry explained.
The servicemen were transported back to Bulgaria on a Spartan aircraft of the Bulgarian Air Force. All are reported to be in excellent health and condition, the Ministry added.
NATO’s mission in Iraq, which supports and advises the Iraqi Armed Forces in their fight against jihadist groups, temporarily withdrew its personnel for security reasons, two security officials told AFP earlier today.
/VL/