U.S. Completes Military Withdrawal From Iraq After 20 Years

U.S. Completes Military Withdrawal From Iraq After More Than Two Decades

Baghdad, Iraq — September 29, 2026: The United States is completing the withdrawal of its military forces from Iraq, bringing an end to more than two decades of significant U.S. military presence in the country.

The withdrawal marks a major turning point in the relationship between Washington and Baghdad and comes more than 20 years after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

U.S. Military Presence Comes to an End

The departure of U.S. forces represents a major change in Iraq's security landscape. Over the years, American troops have played different roles in the country, including combat operations, counterterrorism missions, training and advising Iraqi security forces.

The latest withdrawal follows years of efforts to transition greater responsibility for national security to Iraq's own military and security institutions.

U.S. officials have maintained that the move reflects the changing security environment and Iraq's increased ability to manage its own internal security challenges.

Iran and Allied Groups Welcome Withdrawal

The end of the U.S. military presence has been welcomed by Iran and several Iran-aligned groups in the region.

Iran has long opposed the presence of American troops in neighboring Iraq and has repeatedly called for the withdrawal of foreign military forces from the country.

Iranian-backed political and armed groups have also viewed the U.S. military presence as a major regional security concern.

Concerns Over Iranian Influence

While the withdrawal is being welcomed by some groups, Iraqi political and security figures have raised concerns about its possible consequences.

Some fear that the departure of U.S. forces could create additional space for Iranian influence within Iraq, particularly among political and security networks with close ties to Tehran.

There are also concerns that the changing military balance could create new security challenges if extremist groups attempt to exploit any gaps in Iraq's security arrangements.

What Comes Next for Iraq?

The withdrawal places greater responsibility on the Iraqi government and its security forces to maintain stability and protect the country from internal and external threats.

Iraq has made significant progress in strengthening its security institutions since the height of the war against Islamic State militants. However, the country's political environment remains complex, with competing domestic and regional interests continuing to shape its security policy.

The future relationship between Iraq, the United States and Iran is therefore expected to remain an important issue in Middle Eastern politics.

A New Chapter for U.S.-Iraq Relations

The completion of the military withdrawal does not necessarily mean the end of U.S.-Iraq relations.

Washington and Baghdad are expected to maintain diplomatic, economic and security cooperation, although the nature of that relationship is likely to evolve following the departure of American forces.

For Iraq, the withdrawal represents both an opportunity to exercise greater control over its security affairs and a challenge to maintain stability amid competing regional interests.

The development could also have wider implications for the Middle East as governments and regional powers assess the changing role of the United States in the region.

Key Takeaway

The U.S. military withdrawal from Iraq closes a significant chapter that began with the 2003 invasion and continued through years of conflict, counterterrorism operations and military cooperation.

While the move is welcomed by Iran and its allies, concerns remain over Iraq's security, the potential expansion of Iranian influence and the country's ability to maintain stability without a large U.S. military presence.