The U.S. has reached an agreement with Iraq to conclude its military mission against ISIS, resulting in the withdrawal of U.S. troops from several longstanding bases. However, the Biden administration has not revealed specific numbers regarding remaining forces, amidst rising tensions in the region and increased Iranian militia attacks. This transition will take place in two phases, with the first phase ending the coalition mission by September 2025 and relocating troops to regional bases.
The United States has reached an agreement with the Iraqi government to conclude its military mission against the Islamic State (ISIS) by next year, resulting in the withdrawal of U.S. troops from some longstanding military bases in Iraq. This decision marks a significant shift in the nearly two-decade-long U.S. military presence in the region. However, the Biden administration has not provided specific details regarding the number of the approximately 2,500 U.S. troops that will remain in Iraq, and it stopped short of declaring a complete withdrawal from the country. This announcement arises amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iranian-backed factions such as Hezbollah and Hamas, raising concerns about the potential for broader conflict. U.S. bases in Iraq have increasingly been targeted by militia groups supported by Iran, with these attacks intensifying since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war nearly a year ago. Iraqi officials have been advocating for the withdrawal of coalition forces for years, and discussions have been ongoing to facilitate this transition. U.S. officials outlined a two-phase plan to adjust troop presence in Iraq, with the first phase aimed at concluding the coalition mission against ISIS by September 2025 and commencing the departure of troops from bases including Ain al-Asad and Baghdad International Airport. Troops are expected to relocate to Hareer base in northern Iraq’s Kurdistan region. In the second phase, the U.S. will retain a presence in Iraq until at least 2026 to support counter-ISIS efforts in neighboring Syria. While U.S. military officials have indicated that this will lead to a bilateral security partnership, precise details regarding troop numbers remain unspecified, with Iraqi officials suggesting that some American forces may remain at Hareer base beyond 2026 to assist the Kurdistan regional government. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani acknowledged the crucial step taken in transitioning the role of international coalition forces in the fight against ISIS, affirming the capability of Iraqi security forces in handling these challenges. The continued presence of U.S. troops has become a politically sensitive issue for the al-Sudani administration, which has been navigating the complex dynamics between American and Iranian interests in the region. This agreement represents the third formal transition of the U.S. military’s role in Iraq in the last two decades. Following the U.S. invasion in 2003, which was fueled by misleading intelligence regarding weapons of mass destruction, American troop numbers peaked at over 170,000 during counterinsurgency operations in 2007. Subsequent reductions occurred under the Obama administration, leading to a smaller contingent remaining to oversee security assistance after the final combat units departed in December 2011. The resurgence of ISIS in 2014 prompted the U.S. to return, working alongside Iraqi forces until coalition operations ceased in 2021, leaving a residual force to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and deter Iranian militia activities.
The military involvement of the United States in Iraq began with the invasion in March 2003, which was justified by the belief that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. This premise proved false, leading to widespread destruction and prolonged conflict in the region. Over the years, the U.S. has made several transitions in its military presence, with the number of troops fluctuating based on the security situation. The rise of ISIS in 2014 necessitated the return of U.S. forces, who supported the Iraqi military’s efforts to combat the terrorist group. This latest agreement highlights the ongoing complexities of U.S.-Iraq relations, amidst rising regional tensions and the influence of Iranian-backed militias.
In summary, the U.S. agreement to draw down its military presence in Iraq marks a significant evolution in the nation’s involvement in the region, transitioning from combat operations against ISIS to a future focused on support and partnership. Despite the lack of clarity regarding troop numbers and the implications for U.S.-Iran relations, the ongoing political and security dynamics will continue to shape the nature of American involvement in Iraq and broader Middle East engagements.
Original Source: apnews.com
