NAJAF, Iraq - The US-led coalition handed over security responsibilities in Iraq's northern Najaf province to Iraqi forces Wednesday morning.

Najaf was the third of Iraq's 18 provinces to come under local control. British troops handed over control of southern Muthana province in July, and the Italian military transferred Dhi Qar province to Iraqis in September.

At a ceremony, Iraq's national security adviser, Mouwafak al-Rubaie, called the transfer a "historical achievement."

"Iraqis are taking the lead because they are more efficient, more capable and the people of this land. The coming days will show the high credibility of the Iraqi government in its dealing with security," al-Rubaie said.