In a briefing on Aug. 8, Taher said the facility would host experts from the United States and other foreign countries. He said the center would cover a range of training, including bomb disposal and mine clearance.

"The war is an international war," Taher said. "Therefore, the lessons learned are international as well."

IEDs have been deemed the leading cause of casualties among both civilians and security personnel in Iraq, Middle East Newsline reported. Al Qaida has been the leading user of IEDs, particularly in suicide car attacks in the Baghdad area.

"The terrorists use explosives, the only weapon that affects security forces and the infrastructure," Taher said. "You must combat this weapon with science, with technology and by staying security-conscious. This will be taught at the new center."

Officials said the Interior Ministry facility would also host members of the Defense Ministry, Iraq Army and Kurdish security forces. They said the center would also invite foreign militaries.

"Our focus in all our efforts is to develop the Iraqi Army's capacity in order to better enable them to conduct counter-terrorism operations and provide security for the Iraqi people," U.S. Maj. Mark Sherkey said.

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