Iraqi Special Forces Complete Counter-Terrorism Training in Pakistan Amid Strengthened Defense Ties

Ahmed Mohammed 16/03/2025
The video shared by Radio Pakistan on March 16, 2025, shows Pakistani and Iraqi forces taking part at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in Pabbi town in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. (Radio Pakistan/Screengrab)
The video shared by Radio Pakistan on March 16, 2025, shows Pakistani and Iraqi forces taking part at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in Pabbi town in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. (Radio Pakistan/Screengrab)

Iraqi Special Forces have completed a two-month counter-terrorism training course at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in northwestern Pakistan, as both countries seek to enhance military cooperation, state-run media reported on Sunday.

The Iraqi personnel arrived in December 2024 for the training at the NCTC in Pabbi, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to Radio Pakistan.

Pakistani military institutions play an important role in providing counter-terrorism training and strengthening regional security cooperation,” the report said, adding that more Iraqi Special Forces will undergo training at the NCTC, which is described as an "internationally renowned training center with modern facilities."

Military collaboration between Pakistan and Iraq dates back to 1955, when the Pakistan Army first agreed to train Iraqi personnel. In 2014, Iraq purchased Super Mushak trainer aircraft from Pakistan, further strengthening their defense ties.

Ahmed Mohammed

16/03/2025