Over the course of the next two years, the US will remove the majority of its troops from Iraq. It would leave just a small presence in the northern Kurdistan region. This decision comes after months of negotiations between American and Iraqi officials. By marking a significant shift in the military mission that began over two decades ago.
Transition to a Security Partnership
According to Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit al-Abbasi, the U.S. and Iraq have agreed to transition Operation Inherent Resolve. The mission initially established to combat Islamic State (ISIS) militants, into a “sustainable security partnership.” The plan involves withdrawing the 2,500 U.S. troops stationed in Iraq in two stages.
Abbasi outlined that the first phase of withdrawal would begin in 2024 and continue into 2025. The second phase will conclude in 2026. This drawdown will likely reduce American military involvement in Iraq. But leave behind a smaller force in Kurdistan to support local security efforts.
Ongoing Security Challenges
While U.S. forces will largely depart Iraq, a smaller contingent is expected to remain in the semiautonomous Kurdish region. This presence aims to provide security to the Kurds. As they face threats from Iranian-backed militias operating in the rest of Iraq.
The Pentagon has not officially confirmed these plans, but U.S. officials have acknowledged ongoing discussions. The reduced force in Kurdistan will also help sustain U.S. operations in neighbouring Syria, where around 900 American troops remain.
A Familiar Pattern of Troops Withdrawal
If the plan proceeds, it will be the second major U.S. withdrawal from Iraq since the 2003 invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. In 2011, American troops left Iraq, only to return in 2014 when ISIS captured large parts of the country. Since the defeat of ISIS in 2017, the number of U.S. forces has been steadily reduced.
However, concerns remain that the departure of U.S. forces could again leave Iraq vulnerable to security challenges. The Iraqi government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani faces pressure from Iranian-backed militias, who want to see a complete American withdrawal.
Regional Implications related with Troops Withdrawal
The withdrawal of U.S. troops also has implications for the broader region. American positions in Iraq and Syria have been targeted by rocket and drone attacks from Iranian-backed groups since renewed conflict between Israel and Hamas began last year. In January, three U.S. troops were killed in Jordan, and further attacks have occurred, leading to periodic U.S. airstrikes in response.
While the U.S. is no longer directly involved in combat operations in Iraq or Syria, its forces continue to face risks, with seven troops wounded last month during operations against ISIS remnants in western Iraq.
Iraq’s Evolving Security Landscape
Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister are eager to show they can manage the country’s security without U.S. support. Iraqi forces have grown stronger, but corruption, sectarian divides, and militia influence remain ongoing challenges. Some in Iraq, especially groups allied with Iran, have threatened to escalate attacks on U.S. troops if they don’t fully withdraw.
The United States is weighing its options carefully. Some U.S. lawmakers, such as Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), believe that while Iraqi leaders want the U.S. presence to end. They also understand the role American troops play in preventing the resurgence of ISIS.
Way Forward
United States is preparing to end its military mission in Iraq by 2026. The questions remain about the future of Iraq’s security and stability. While the U.S. will maintain a limited presence in Kurdistan, the withdrawal marks a pivotal moment in the decades-long American intervention in the region. The next few years will be very important for Iraq. The country needs to handle its security without a lot of U.S. soldiers. It will be a challenge to keep things safe and stable on their own.