The first phase of the political transition in Iraq officially began with the end of the occupation and the transfer of full governing powers to a sovereign Interim Government on June 28 - two days earlier than expected. During the transition period, a UN-mandated Multinational Force (MNF), already stationed in Iraq for some time, together with local troops, will contribute to the maintenance of security and stability in Iraq. The basic conditions of the MNF's mission under international law were not clarified in detail until the very last moment. Several important decisions regarding the force's future status - especially the question of immunity from Iraqi jurisdiction - were made only the day before the transfer of power.
