US Forces Complete Withdrawal from Iraq After 23 Years, Shifting Power in Region

The US military presence in Iraq began in 2003 with the invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. Over the following years, US troops became deeply involved in Iraq's security, politics, and reconstruction efforts. The initial invasion was justified by claims of weapons of mass destruction, which were never found, and the mission evolved into fighting insurgency and, later, ISIS.

US forces withdrew in 2011 but returned in 2014 as part of a coalition to combat ISIS, which had seized large parts of Iraq. Over the years, the US presence fluctuated, but thousands of American troops remained stationed at Iraqi bases for training and counterterrorism.

On September 29, 2026, US forces began their final withdrawal from their last bases in Iraq, ending more than two decades of military involvement. This move followed an agreement reached under former president Joe Biden, with the aim of handing full security responsibility to Iraqi authorities.

The withdrawal was celebrated by Iran and its allies, who claim the US exit marks a victory for their influence in Iraq. Shiite groups and Iran-backed militias were particularly vocal in their support of the move, while some Iraqi officials and Sunni leaders expressed concern about the risks of a security vacuum.

As the troops pulled out, fears grew about the possible resurgence of ISIS and the emboldening of Iran-backed militia groups. Iraqi leaders declared the beginning of a new era of sovereignty, but acknowledged the complexity of the security challenges ahead.

In parallel with the withdrawal, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released a lengthy open letter addressed to the American public, calling for a shift in US foreign policy and urging Americans to reject ongoing support for Israel and foreign military interventions.

The withdrawal was completed by September 30, 2026, marking the end of a 23-year US military presence. Iraq now faces the dual challenge of maintaining security and managing its relationships with both Washington and Tehran.

With the last American troops gone, Iraq is fully responsible for its own security. While some Iraqis celebrate the departure as a restoration of sovereignty, there are widespread worries about the government's ability to contain threats from ISIS remnants and powerful armed groups aligned with Iran.

Regional dynamics are shifting, with Iran expected to increase its influence in Iraqi affairs. The US exit has also prompted political messaging from Iranian officials, who are seeking to shape perceptions both inside Iraq and internationally.

Key questions remain about whether Iraqi security forces can prevent a resurgence of ISIS and manage powerful militias. The near future will test Iraq's ability to assert sovereignty while balancing pressure from both Iran and the United States. International observers will be watching closely for signs of instability or renewed violence, as well as for shifts in Iraq's regional alliances.