Lithuania
As a member of the Global Coalition against Daesh, Lithuania took part in the US-led Operation in Iraq, Inherent Resolve, with a constant contribution of six military instructors training local security forces. Lithuanian military personnel were deployed to the Danish Contingent in north-western part of Iraq, Al Asad air base. This contribution was withdrawn when all training activities were suspended due to COVID-19, and Denmark started preparations to assume operational leadership over the NATO Mission in Iraq. Overall 50 soldiers participated in the operation.
Since 2019, Lithuania has also taken part in the operation NATO Mission Iraq. Currently, Lithuania deploys three soldiers to the operation headquarters in Baghdad – 2 staff specialist and 1 Signal Officer (DCM-D).
In addition, the Armed Forces of Lithuania continue preparations to deploy a Force Protection Platoon to the Danish Contingent in Baghdad at the end of 2021.
The main objective being total defeat of Daesh, Lithuania also seeks to contribute to broader international efforts to address the global threat of terrorism.
Terrorism cannot be eradicated unilaterally. The Global Coalition provides an indispensable opportunity for the international community to bring together knowledge, best practices, capabilities and expertise to eradicate the scourge of violent extremism.
Participation in multinational operations is an important element of Lithuania’s commitment to international security, including NATO collective defence efforts and the EU military cooperation initiatives.
Date Entered Coalition: Lithuania has been a member of the Coalition since its formation on 3 December 2014.
Working Group Membership: Lithuania is a member of the Communications Working Group.
According to a public opinion poll carried out by request of the Ministry of National Defence in December 2018, the majority of Lithuania’s population support the participation of Lithuanian soldiers in multinational operations contributing to the efforts of the international community to sustain peace and stability in the world, as well as efforts to prevent inter-state and ethnic conflicts, and in fighting international terrorism. According to the poll results, 72% of the respondents thought Lithuanian soldiers should be deployed to multinational operations, if such was the request of NATO allies. A further 68% of the respondents agreed that Lithuania should step up its contribution in the fight against international terrorism.
Social media handle and official website:
Twitter: @Lithuanian_MoD, @LithuaniaMFA
FaceBook: Foreign Office, Ministry of National Defense
YouTube: National Defence
Website: kam.lt, urm.lt
The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Daesh) is led by an ideology of hatred and madness that includes ethnic and religious cleansing and disrespect for all minorities and different people.
Her Excellency Dalia Grybauskaitė, President of the Republic of Lithuania
