Iraqi Counter-terrorism Service members take part in Lion's Leap – in pictures

Explosions and helicopter drops combine for a spectacular military drill

Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service (ICTS) members take part in the tactical exercise (Lions' Leap) in Baghdad, Iraq, July 11, 2022. REUTERS / Thaier Al-Sudani TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

The drills on Monday were attended by Mustafa Al Kadhimi, the Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

A dog helps and armed service member.

Troops descend ropes in the exercise called Lion's Leap.

An array of armoured vehicles took part.

Mr Al Kadhimi watched the military manoeuvres with Lt Gen Abdul Wahab Al Saadi, head of the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service.

The prime minister’s media team said he congratulated Iraq’s ‘brave fighters on the occasion of the blessed Eid al-Adha, recalling the heroisms achieved by the heroes of CTS with their brothers in other military and security institutions in the liberation of the city of Mosul’ from ISIS.

Mr Al Kadhimi expressed his confidence in the officers and soldiers' training, dedication and efforts and he said such levels of discipline and performance should instill pride in all Iraqis.

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