President Donald J. Trump announces the departure of the last American forces from Iraq
Operation Inherent Resolve is scheduled to conclude in 2026 with the exit of the last American forces from Iraq. President Donald J. Trump characterized this withdrawal as a triumph for both the United States and Iraq, emphasizing that the military will be bringing all its equipment back home. He also praised Iraq’s new Prime Minister, Ali Al Zaidi, highlighting the distinction between this orderly exit and the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, Iraq is bracing for the potential intrusion of Islamic State fighters from Syria. Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, addressing reporters in Washington, expressed concern over ISIS activities in Syria and remarked that Iraqi forces are preparing to tackle any incursions at the border. He reassured that Iraq’s military is now capable of managing the terrorist threat independently of a considerable U.S.-led coalition presence.
“We are apprehensive about ISIS movements inside Syria,” Hussein stated, adding that Iraqi forces stand ready to combat any threats. Yet, he emphasized confidence in their ability to handle the situation without extensive foreign support.
Despite Trump calling the departure from Iraq a victory, as he pointed out that ISIS had been “completely decimated,” Iraq’s Foreign Minister offered a contrasting view. His warning about ISIS resurfacing comes on the heels of reports that Syrian authorities recently dismantled an ISIS cell linked to kidnappings and assassinations.
U.S. officials, while acknowledging that ISIS has been significantly weakened, admit that the group still maintains scattered remnants in both Iraq and Syria. The Pentagon believes that Iraqi forces can manage these remaining threats on their own while U.S. operations continue in Syria to prevent ISIS from regrouping.
This withdrawal signifies the end of a military mission that profoundly influenced American foreign policy over more than two decades. The initial 2003 invasion toppled Saddam Hussein but led to years of violence and instability, with nearly 4,500 U.S. service members losing their lives before the 2011 pullout. Following a resurgence of ISIS in 2014, U.S. forces were tasked once again, launching Operation Inherent Resolve to help Iraq reclaim lost territory.
Now, Iraq aims to establish a security relationship with the U.S., although details are still being finalized. Discussions on what this partnership might entail, including aspects like training and intelligence sharing, have only just begun. Simultaneously, Iraq is attempting to rein in Iranian-backed militias operating outside of official security forces, which has long been a point of contention with the U.S.
Iraq had initially set a September 30 deadline for these armed groups to disband or fall under state authority. However, this timeline has since been extended to June 2027, as some factions resist disarmament. Hussein confirmed that some groups have expressed support for government initiatives while negotiations with others continue.
“No single group will be allowed to act independently and attack other nations,” Hussein asserted.
The urgency of this situation is heightened by ongoing tensions stemming from the U.S.-Iran conflict. A recent incident, where an attack on Saudi Arabia originated from Iraqi territory, has prompted Baghdad to investigate and consult with both Riyadh and Tehran. Hussein mentioned he is in contact with Saudi officials about this matter and plans to discuss it further in Riyadh.
In summary, Iraq finds itself in a precarious position amid the U.S.-Iran rivalry, having been affected by attacks from both sides. “We have become victims of this conflict,” Hussein remarked, underscoring Baghdad’s efforts to mediate and prevent further entanglement in the ongoing hostilities.
