Iraqi army fully takes over key base following US withdrawal
Summary
The Iraqi Army has fully taken control of the Ain al-Asad air base after the complete withdrawal of U.S. forces, marking a significant step in winding down the US-led coalition's presence in Iraq by September 2025.
Key Points
- U.S. forces have fully withdrawn from the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq as per the 2024 agreement with Iraq.
- Iraqi Army Chief Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah has taken over full control of the base and coordinated its military units.
- A small U.S. advisory unit remained longer due to developments in Syria but has now also left.
- The withdrawal may bolster Iraqi government efforts to disarm non-state armed groups using U.S. presence as justification.
