Trump: U.S. No Longer Needs Military Presence in Iraq
President Donald Trump expressed his belief that the United States does not require a military presence in Iraq anymore, noting that Iraq is ready to operate independently. He pointed out that Iran has weakened Baghdad’s position. As the coalition mission is set to conclude on September 30, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi supported this notion, stating that any armed groups not under state control would lose their legitimacy once the coalition ends its mission.
During his remarks, Trump emphasized that the partnership with Iraq would transition from military support to investment and energy development. Meanwhile, al-Zaidi mentioned, “On September 30th, U.S. troops will leave Iraq, but U.S. companies will stay.” This indicates a shift in focus, perhaps suggesting a long-term engagement that isn’t military-related.
Trump firmly stated, “I don’t think we need the military there anymore.” He suggested that the situation has evolved to the point where the presence of U.S. troops is no longer necessary for protection. He highlighted a transformed security environment, attributing it to a significant decline in Iran’s military capacity over the last few months.
The president’s comments reflect a substantial change in the narrative regarding Iraq, once known mainly for violence and conflict. Now, after more than two decades since the U.S. invasion, the emphasis seems to be shifting to boosting economic ties rather than maintaining military partnerships. This is underscored by the billions anticipated in U.S. energy investments and the interest of American businesses in the region.
Iran has historically wielded influence in Iraq, primarily through political factions and militias within the Popular Mobilization Forces, which operate outside Iraqi state control. The U.S. has long pushed the Iraqi government to bring these groups fully under state authority.
According to a 2024 agreement, the U.S. and Iraq agreed to terminate the military mission by September 2025. As U.S. troops withdraw from various bases, they will continue to offer advisory support, especially in operations against ISIS alongside forces in Syria.
Currently, about 2,500 U.S. troops remain in Iraq, a significant reduction from the peak of around 170,000 during the height of the war in 2007. Nearly all U.S. troops left in 2011, but a contingent returned in 2014 to combat ISIS.
Al-Zaidi, a newcomer to politics and a businessman, was elected this year as a compromise candidate following a period of political stalemate. Trump supported his candidacy and came out against the return of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, viewed as too close to Iran. In their Oval Office meeting, Trump praised al-Zaidi’s leadership, suggesting that his influence would resonate throughout the region, claiming credit for assisting in his ascent to power.
