Babel Governor Salem Al Missilmawi affirmed that the province will take over on Thursday security of the province from US Forces due to stability therein and understanding between all parties. For his part, Babel police Chief Fadel Radad affirmed that security forces are ready to take over as they are in control of the security situation therein due to the competence of recruits and the cooperation of citizens with the government. US Forces will pull out to their bases and will no longer take part in any military operation unless upon the request of local authorities.
Babel is the 12th province out of 18 to take over security from coalition forces while six provinces are still remaining namely Baghdad, Waset, Diyala, Nineveh, Salah Din and Kirkuk.