Overview
- U.S. forces completed their withdrawal from their last bases in Iraq on Sept. 30, ending a more than two‑decade military presence that began in 2003 and was renewed in 2014.
- Kurdish commanders say the pullout cost them U.S. intelligence, aerial surveillance, drone support and air defenses that had helped protect the Erbil area from months of missile and drone strikes.
- Baghdad postponed its deadline to bring armed factions’ weapons under state control to June 30, 2027, removing the main, on‑paper check meant to limit militia power after the U.S. exit.
- Iraqi security forces reported uncovering a suspected Islamic State plot timed around the withdrawal, highlighting immediate counterterrorism risks as coalition boots leave the ground.
- Analysts and local leaders warn Iran‑aligned militias portray the exit as a win and could expand influence over politics and security, while ordinary Iraqis face increased danger from reduced surveillance and slower logistics.