The Pentagon announced on Wednesday that it has formally completed its withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. This development comes two years after the withdrawal was agreed to and 12 years since the US mission to fight the Islamic State began.
Following the announcement, Iran and its allies celebrated the departure as a victory. However, Iraqi security experts have expressed worry that the withdrawal could provide an opportunity for the Islamic State and other groups to recover.
The Pentagon stated that the United States and its Coalition partners have formally concluded Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq, marking the successful end of the military mission that defeated ISIS in Iraq. The Pentagon also noted it will continue to provide training and intelligence support to Iraq to prevent ISIS from reconstituting within Iraqi territory.
The primary responsibility for addressing Iraq’s remaining security challenges, including ISIS remnants and Iran-aligned militias, now rests with the Government of Iraq.