US Army Col. Charles Costanza was recently deployed for his fourth time to Iraq since 2003. The commander of the international coalition's base in Erbil sat down with a Rudaw correspondent to speak about the mission to defeat ISIS, its successes and challenges. He describes Operation Inherent Resolve being conducted 'opposite' of the previous in Iraq.'
Commander Costanza evaluates the coordination between Kurdish Peshmerga and Iraqi military officers as 'amazing' without 'issues or challenges.' He emphasizes the professionalism of the Peshmerga and their readiness to receive military training from the internationals . The coalition has trained around 26,000 Kurdish Peshmerga forces for the fight against ISIS.
He said the United States recognizes the sacrifices of the Kurdish and Iraqi forces and his country is thankful for their service. He said: 'I appreciate everything that the Kurds have given, I appreciate everything the ISF have given to help us all collectively defeat ISIS.'
Costanza is also commander of the Strike Cell Team, responsible for authorizing strikes against ISIS at the request of Peshmerga or ISF. The Armor Officer of the 1st Armored Division also touches on the changes he has seen on the ground because of the January policy shift in Washington regarding the delegation of authority.
