Iraq begins high-stakes security balancing act as US troops withdraw
Summary
Iraq is marking the full withdrawal of US troops after more than 20 years of foreign military presence. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is working to strengthen Iraq’s government control, including plans to disarm militias, some of which are linked to Iran, by June 2027.Key Facts
- Iraq will observe four “Sovereignty Days” to mark the complete exit of US forces.
- The last US troops leaving were mainly advisers supporting the fight against ISIS, a group active since 2015.
- Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi aims to increase state authority and control over weapons.
- The government’s plan includes disarming all militias by June 2027.
- Some powerful militias related to Iran have resisted giving up their arms.
- Al-Zaidi wants to move Iraq’s relationship with the US from military to economic cooperation.
- Experts warn the process could be difficult and may increase Iran’s influence in Iraq.
- The US withdrawal follows a phased troop pullout started under President Donald Trump in 2020.
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