Croatia has begun the process of withdrawing its troops from international missions in Iraq and Lebanon, the office of President Zoran Milanović announced, national television HRT reported, BTA reports.
According to information from the presidential institution, the Chief of the General Staff initiated the procedure in accordance with the decision of the head of state, taking into account the current security situation and operational conditions on the ground. The office specifies that the public will be informed after the process is finalized.
This decision is made against the backdrop of rising tensions in the Middle East, where Iran has stepped up its attacks on Israel, while the US has not yet deployed ground forces in the region, HRT recalls.
The presidential office notes that the decision to withdraw is within the constitutional and legal powers of the head of state and is based on an assessment of security in the areas where Croatian contingents are deployed.
President Milanović will continue to monitor the situation closely in order to ensure the safety of Croatian servicemen and protect the country's national interests, while adhering to the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Croatia.