Reuters reports that the last U.S. troops are due to leave Iraq by Sept. 30, bringing a 23-year military presence that began with the 2003 invasion to an end.
The withdrawal follows a 2024 agreement between Washington and Baghdad to wind down the U.S.-led coalition mission against ISIS. Iran-aligned factions have hailed the departure as a victory, while some Iraqi officials and analysts warn that losing U.S. intelligence, surveillance and logistical support could create new openings for the militant group.
Roughly 4,500 Americans have died in Iraq since 2003. The pullout closes one of the longest chapters of U.S. military involvement in the Middle East, even as questions remain over Iraq’s ability to contain both ISIS sleeper cells and the influence of armed factions backed by Iran.
Live update published by Eastora News





.jpg)