The Pakistan Army successfully concluded a nine-week Special Forces training programme for the third batch of 446 Iraqi Army personnel at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Pabbi, with a graduation ceremony held today.
The intensive course, conducted from 24 September to 29 November 2025, focused on advanced counter-terrorism tactics, close-quarter battle, urban operations, sniper training, combat medicine, and integrated mission planning. Trainees underwent rigorous physical and tactical drills under the supervision of Pakistan Special Service Group (SSG) instructors.
The ceremony was graced by senior Pakistan Army officers, led by Lieutenant General (name withheld for security), and a high-level delegation from the Iraqi military, including Major General (name withheld), representing the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service.
In his address, the chief guest commended the exceptional professionalism, discipline, and operational excellence displayed by both Pakistani instructors and Iraqi trainees. He highlighted Pakistan’s world-class counter-terrorism expertise, forged through decades of successful operations, and reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to capacity-building of brotherly Muslim nations.
The Iraqi delegation expressed profound gratitude for Pakistan’s continued support, describing the training as “transformative” for enhancing their forces’ ability to combat terrorism and secure national sovereignty.
All training objectives were fully achieved, marking another milestone in the deepening military-to-military cooperation between Pakistan and Iraq. Both sides pledged to expand collaboration through joint exercises, training exchanges, and intelligence sharing.
Since 2023, Pakistan has trained over 1,200 Iraqi Special Forces personnel under this programme, significantly contributing to regional stability and the global fight against terrorism.
Pakistan remains a reliable partner in strengthening defence capabilities of friendly countries, guided by its policy of peace through strength and fraternal solidarity.
