Operation IMPACT - Iraq

CAF Operations

What is the current status of the Canadian Armed Forces mission, Operation IMPACT?

Canada’s contribution to Operation IMPACT has been essential to countering Daesh, and fostering security and stability in the Middle East.
Canadian Armed Forces members are presently conducting capacity building training operations with the Jordanian and Lebanese Armed Forces under Operation IMPACT.
Canada’s Special Operations Forces train, advise, and assist Iraqi Security Forces in their fight against Daesh in Northern Iraq.
Due to COVID-19 and continued geo-political challenges in the region, our members continue to work with Iraqi security forces, but at reduced levels.
As a result, we have approximately 100 military members in Iraq.
Our commitment to stability in the Middle East remains strong and personnel levels will be readjusted when the conditions are right.

If pressed on the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command’s mission in Iraq:

Our Special Operations Forces provide:
- Training in fundamental and specialized military skills;
- Advice on the planning of operations; and,
- Assistance and guidance while partner forces conduct operations.
These activities help partner forces apply new military skills on operations and deliver tangible impact on the ground.

On November 24, 2020, Canada transferred command of NATO Mission Iraq to Denmark.
Canada had commanded the NATO training and capacity building mission since the fall of 2018.
In April 2019, Canada renewed Operation IMPACT until 31 March 2021, investing an additional $1.39 billion.

GBA+

LCdr Calley Gray, from MARPAC in Esquimalt, as the Gender Advisor for the NATO Mission in Iraq plays a key role in delivering training and workshops on topics such as Women, Peace, and Security, and gender perspectives.

Responsible Principals: Canadian Joint Operations Command, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, Strategic Joint Staff

Information Current as of January 18, 2021