US completes Iraq troop withdrawal
Summary
The U.S. military has completed its withdrawal from Iraq, ending a 12-year mission against the Islamic State group. Iraqi leaders hailed the move as a sign of sovereignty, while Kurdish officials and Iran-backed militias voiced concern and celebration respectively.
Key Points
- The U.S. military said it has completed the withdrawal of all American troops from Iraq, ending a 12-year mission against the Islamic State group.
- Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi described the pullout as the start of a new phase centered on sovereignty and stronger national institutions.
- Officials in Iraq’s Kurdish region warned that the departure, especially without U.S. air defense systems, leaves the area exposed to drone and missile attacks.
- Iran-backed militias celebrated the withdrawal and warned Iraq’s government against following American plans.
