PARIS: An elite French commando member was killed during an anti-terrorist operation in Iraq while actively supporting an Iraqi unit. French President Emmanuel Macron’s office confirmed the unfortunate demise of Sergeant Nicolas Mazier, an air force paratrooper, during his mission.
The Elysee Palace released a statement expressing profound respect for Sergeant Mazier’s ultimate sacrifice. The statement indicated that he “fell in combat while carrying out his mission,” and also conveyed Macron’s profound respect for the fallen soldier.
Details provided by an Iraqi security source in northeastern Kirkuk shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Reportedly, Iraqi and French troops were ambushed by militants affiliated with the Daesh group late on Monday in Salah Al-Din province, an area adjacent to Kirkuk. The ensuing battle, which persisted for over five hours, resulted in casualties among both French troops and Iraq’s anti-terrorist forces.
Losses to French Military in Iraq
Sergeant Mazier’s demise marks the third loss for the French military in Iraq within the month. France contributes to Operation Inherent Resolve, an international coalition’s years-long campaign against the Daesh group.
In August alone, two other French soldiers, Sergeant Baptiste Gauchot and Officer Nicolas Latourte, also lost their lives in Iraq. Sergeant Gauchot’s passing was attributed to a traffic accident, while Officer Latourte died during a training exercise.
