Key Facts
- Duration
- 19 March 2003 – 22 May 2011
- Peak troop deployment
- 46,000 troops
- Total cost
- £9.24 billion (as of 2010)
- Main mission end date
- 30 April 2009
- Final residual force
- ~150 troops (mainly Royal Navy)
Strategic Narrative Overview
British forces participated in the initial invasion beginning 19 March 2003, primarily operating in southern Iraq around Basra. Following the fall of Saddam Hussein's government, UK troops transitioned to occupation, stabilisation, and counter-insurgency operations. Violence and sectarian conflict intensified in subsequent years, and British forces gradually drew down their presence as Iraqi security forces assumed greater responsibility.
01 / The Origins
Operation Telic arose from the United States-led coalition's decision to invade Iraq in March 2003, premised on claims that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction and posed a threat to international security. The United Kingdom, under Prime Minister Tony Blair, committed significant military forces alongside the United States, despite substantial domestic and international opposition and without explicit United Nations authorisation.
03 / The Outcome
The bulk of the British mission concluded on 30 April 2009, with the formal combat role ending after a phased handover to Iraqi authorities. A residual force of approximately 150 personnel, mainly from the Royal Navy, remained under the Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission until the final withdrawal on 22 May 2011. The total cost of the operation reached £9.24 billion by 2010.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent