US completes Iraq military withdrawal after 12 years
US military completes withdrawal of all troops from Iraq by September 30 deadline, ending 12-year campaign against the Islamic State group.
The last US troops left an air base in northern Iraq under a deal between Iraqi and US officials. President Trump called the withdrawal "orderly".
Trump also called it "a victory for the US, Iraq and a sign of victory over IS". Iraqi troops paraded through Baghdad and the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf to celebrate.
Baghdad resident Ahmed Salah said the withdrawal "fills our hearts with joy". But concerns remain.
Islamic State could resurge. Iran-backed militia groups also worry officials, as the Iraqi government has struggled to disarm them.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the withdrawal changes the mission. The US shifts from wartime coalition operations to a more typical bilateral security relationship.
- 12 years
- Mission duration
- September 30
- Deadline met
- Northern Iraq air base
- Withdrawal location
Why it mattersThe end of the US military mission in Iraq marks a major shift in US strategy after two decades of conflict since the 2003 invasion.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but any instability in Iraq could affect Middle East security and regional conflicts involving Australian interests.
Corroborated bythenightly.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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