British forces take over defence of Japanese troops

The Dutch mission in Iraq formally ended today when its troops in the south ceded command to the British.

The Netherlands sent a force of 1,400 troops to the relatively peaceful province of Muthana as part of the US-led coalition. Two Dutch soldiers were killed in ambushes during their 20 month mission, which began in August 2003, shortly after US President George Bush declared an end to major combat operations.

The Dutch government decided last year to end the mission this month despite requests from Washington and London to remain longer.

British forces will also assume responsibility for 550 Japanese soldiers formerly under Dutch command in the area.

Although the Dutch handed over formal command today, the actual withdrawal will be gradual, army spokeswoman Gwendolyn Rahusan said.

The mission remains operational until March 15 to allow Dutch troops to familiarise British forces with their work.