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Measuring Stability and Security in Iraq

December 2007
Report to Congress
In accordance with the
Department of Defense Appropriations Act 2007
(Section 9010, Public Law 109-289)

Section 1-Stability and Security

1.4 Transferring Security Responsibility

The Coalition continues to transfer respon-sibility for security to the GoI. Karbala Province transitioned to Provincial Iraqi Control (PIC) on October 29, 2007, bringing the total number of provinces for which the Government of Iraq (GoI) has lead security responsibility to eight out of eighteen provinces. The Ministerial Committee for National Security has approved the transfer of Basrah Province to PIC in December 2007. All remaining provinces are expected to transition in 2008.

The GoI is broadening its efforts to take responsibility and enhance central GoI control for security through innovative problem solving and creative solutions incorporated into the PIC process. For example, Prime Minister Maliki has activated several operational commands, which report through the Ministry of Defense to the Prime Minister’s office. The intent of these operational commands is to improve the coordination between the Iraqi Army and National Police in conducting security operations and to assist the local police in maintaining security until they are capable of assuming full responsibility.

Although PIC conditions take into account security, threat level and governance, there is no clear post-PIC assessment process for determining the degree to which a transitioned province has achieved sustainable security and the conditions necessary for continued economic growth and stability.

Forward Operating Base Turnover Status

MNF-I has continued to seek reduction of temporary basing requirements by consoli-dating locations using a conditions-based approach that synchronizes basing requirements with Coalition force require-ments. MNF-I has either transitioned to the GoI or closed 61 forward operating bases (FOBs) out of a total of 125 as of November 15, 2007. In the first quarter of CY2007, one FOB was transferred. Three FOBs were transferred in the second quarter of CY2007, and one FOB was transferred in the third quarter, for a total of five FOBs thus far in CY2007. All were in the Multi-National Division – South East area of operations under the command and control of the United Kingdom. Due to increased force levels and Operation Fardh al-Qanoon operational requirements, one FOB previously transferred to the Iraqi Army was re-occupied by Coalition troops during CY2007. A Memorandum of Agreement with the GoI was completed for this troop relocation.

Conclusion

The GoI is broadening its efforts to take responsibility and enhance central GoI control for security. To date, eight provinces have been transitioned to PIC, with transition of the remaining ten expected to be completed in late 2007 and 2008.