Overview
- U.S. Central Command confirmed on Sept. 30, 2026 that the last American forces and equipment left Erbil, marking the end of in‑country Operation Inherent Resolve.
- The Pentagon said primary responsibility for Iraq’s remaining security challenges now rests with the Government of Iraq, citing threats from ISIS remnants and Iran‑aligned militias.
- CENTCOM and the coalition will keep fighting ISIS from abroad after relocating the Combined Joint Task Force‑Operation Inherent Resolve headquarters to Jordan and continuing advisory work.
- Iran and militias aligned with Tehran publicly celebrated the U.S. exit and Iraqi security analysts warned the withdrawal could create openings for militia influence and for ISIS sleeper cells to regroup.
- Kurdish leaders voiced immediate concern over the removal of U.S. air‑defense systems after repeated drone and missile strikes, and Baghdad has declared a national observance called the Day of Sovereignty as it seeks to disarm nonstate armed groups.