U.S. to Announce Troop Reduction in Iraq Amid Ongoing ISIS Threat

The decision follows months of negotiations and aims for complete withdrawal by 2026, while joint missions against ISIS continue.

U.S. officials plan to announce a reduction of troops in Iraq next week, targeting a complete withdrawal by the end of 2026.
Despite the drawdown, the U.S. will continue joint missions with Iraqi forces to combat ISIS, which remains a threat.
The announcement is expected after meetings at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani has stated that the large U.S. presence is no longer justified.
Recent operations have led to significant ISIS casualties, but the group is expected to increase attacks this year.