Iraq deploys Pantsir air defense systems to protect vital sites, adjusts military alert level
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraq is deploying advanced Pantsir air defense systems to protect sensitive and vital locations across the country in a precautionary move, according to security sources on Sunday (June 15, 2025). The directive was reportedly issued by Defence Minister Thabet Al-Abbasi.
Commander of Air Defence, Lt. Gen. Maan Ghaleb Al-Asadi, stated that the movement of air defense systems is a natural and routine procedure to protect Iraq's airspace and vital targets against any emergency. Circulating video footage appeared to show Pantsir batteries moving to designated sites in Maysan.
In a parallel development, MP Iskandar Watout of the Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee announced that the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces has approved lowering the general military alert level and reducing troop presence percentages, effective Monday, June 16th.
Watout noted that while the alert level is being reduced, operational commanders will retain authority for situational assessment and must maintain utmost caution and readiness. The moves suggest a strategic recalibration of Iraq's security posture.
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