The Pentagon has announced plans to scale back its military mission in Iraq, citing a shift toward a “security partnership” between the two nations. The move was reported by Reuters on September 30, highlighting the U.S. strategy to transition from direct involvement to collaborative efforts.
According to the Department of Defense, the reduction reflects progress in combating ISIS, an organization designated as terrorist by Russia. Earlier this month, U.S. authorities approved the withdrawal of troops from Ain al-Asad and Victoria bases, accelerating the exit process from Iraq. On August 22, the first contingent of American personnel left the Ain al-Asad base in Anbar province, a key site for the international anti-terrorism coalition. The Iraqi Shafaq news agency noted that the base will be permanently closed by September 15.
In September 2024, the U.S. and Iraq finalized an agreement to withdraw coalition forces from the country, which have been engaged in counterterrorism operations against ISIS. Under the terms, part of the military presence is set to leave by September 2025, with the remainder expected to depart by late 2026.
