Iraq takes over UNAMI building as mission nears completion

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Iraqi government reclaimed a building in northern Iraq that was previously used by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), as part of preparations to wind down the mission by the end of 2025.

Government spokesperson Basem al-Awadi confirmed on Tuesday that Iraq “took over the building that had been used by UNAMI in the city of Mosul,” located in the northern Nineveh province.

“This step comes as part of the plan to end UNAMI’s mission this year, as agreed upon between the Iraqi government and the United Nations,” Awadi elaborated, adding that “the remaining buildings used by the mission are to be handed over accordingly.”

UNAMI was established in 2003 at the request of Iraqi authorities. While it does not directly implement humanitarian or development projects, it has played a key role in coordinating activities between the Iraqi government and over 20 UN agencies. The head of the mission also serves as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General.

UNAMI’s mandate, renewed annually by the UN Security Council, is now scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025. The decision follows a formal request by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani in May 2024, citing improved security and political stability in the country.

“The grounds for the presence of a political mission in Iraq no longer exist,” Sudani stated in his letter to the UN secretary-general and the Security Council. At the time, Awadi emphasized Iraq’s progress across economic, political, social, and security sectors, and highlighted Baghdad’s intent to redefine its relationship with international institutions.

On Tuesday, Awadi praised UNAMI for “the significant efforts” it exerted during its mission, expressing appreciation for its cooperation in implementing the closure plan. He also expressed “support for future collaboration with the UN development and humanitarian agencies operating in Iraq.”

Speaking at the Middle East Research Institute (MERI) Forum in Erbil in late October, UNAMI chief Mohamed al-Hassan remarked that the international mission is winding down in Iraq because the country no longer requires such a broad mandate and instead needs more targeted support from specialized agencies.

UNAMI’s responsibilities in Iraq have included fostering political dialogue among Iraqi factions and between Iraq and its neighbors. The mission has also supported electoral logistics, monitored human rights conditions, and coordinated humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas. Given these roles, some critics have warned that ending the mission could reduce international oversight, particularly during elections.