The United States has completed the withdrawal of all American troops from Iraq, ending a 12-year mission focused on combating the Islamic State group. This marks the start of a new phase of security cooperation between Washington and Baghdad.
On Wednesday, the last US troops left an airbase in northern Iraq, following an agreement between the two governments. This withdrawal concludes the military mission to defeat ISIS, which had taken control of significant areas in Iraq and Syria.
President Donald Trump described the withdrawal as an “orderly” end to a lengthy and costly military operation, highlighting it as a victory for both the US and Iraq. He pointed out the defeat of ISIS as an organized force.
The Pentagon indicated that this conclusion shifts the relationship from a wartime coalition to a more focused partnership supporting Iraqi security forces. The US will continue to provide assistance in key areas like training and intelligence. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated, “We’ve transitioned from a very large footprint to a much more limited footprint.”
New Era for US-Iraq Security Cooperation
This withdrawal aligns with the 2024 agreement between Baghdad and Washington regarding the removal of coalition military capabilities from Iraq.
During the drawdown, most American troops have departed from Iraqi bases, with only a few hundred remaining in the Kurdish region. Several military installations are set to be handed over to the new Iraqi government.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi called this move the start of a new chapter, emphasizing Iraqi sovereignty and security.
The responsibility for combating the remnants of ISIS—now lacking significant territory but still operating in cells—will largely fall to the Iraqi army.
Increased Security Risks in the Kurdish Region Post-US Withdrawal
Reports indicate that Kurdish officials are worried about ISIS’s potential to regroup and the threats posed by Iranian-backed militias.
While the Kurds want US military bases to leave their region, they also wish to retain the protection and anti-missile systems provided by the US. Additionally, they face an escalating threat from Iranian-backed groups.
Historically, Iraqi Kurds have held anti-American sentiments, especially after the US invasion in 2003 that removed Saddam Hussein. However, they have received substantial military and financial support from the US, which remains active in the area despite the conflict with ISIS.
Iraqi Government Challenges with Militias
Security issues in Iraq and the influence of armed factions are critical factors to consider.
Previously, the Iraqi government blamed the US for disarming Iraqi militias, warning of expulsion if they did not comply. Some smaller pro-Iran factions have agreed to surrender their weapons, but larger groups have refused. Consequently, Iraq’s government has postponed the deadline for disbanding militias until June 2027.
For the US, this development signals the end of its military campaign in Iraq, which began in 2003. For Iraq, it prepares for new discussions with the US regarding the security landscape. While the responsibility for maintaining security will shift, the partnership between the two nations is likely to continue within the framework of bilateral relations.
The American war in Iraq began in 2003 following the invasion to oust Saddam Hussein, prompted by concerns over Iraq’s alleged weapons of mass destruction and long-range missile programs.
Initially, the war enjoyed support from the American public, but as military casualties and costs rose, it began to be viewed more negatively.
The US withdrew its troops in 2011, but returned in 2014 in response to the fall of Mosul to ISIS. US officials cited the threat to Kurdish safety, traditional allies of the US, as a key reason for the intervention.