The force of 1,600 Italians will all be home within eight weeks, having turned over their base to Iraqis, British military spokesman Major Charlie Burbridge said. The Italians have been under British command in Iraq's mainly Shia southern sector.

"The Italians have been very successful here. The key to their success has been developing a good working relationship with the local governor and Iraqi authorities, making it possible to turn over security responsibility to Iraqi forces," Burbridge said.The province also includes a giant US air base which will not be turned over, near ruins of the ancient city of Ur. A task force of 450 Australians will stay on that base as a rapid reaction team in case of a security emergency in the province.