Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit al-Abbasi revealed that the high-level military committees between the Iraqi and American sides have reached an agreement on the withdrawal of coalition forces over two years and transitioning the relationship into a sustainable security partnership.
In an interview with Al Arabiya today, Sunday, Abbasi stated, “It has been agreed to end the coalition’s mission in two phases, the first starting this year and continuing until 2025, with the second phase of the American withdrawal completing fully in 2026.” He added that the announcement of the withdrawal was postponed due to the current regional conditions and the American elections, noting that U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin proposed that two years was insufficient for withdrawal, requesting an additional year, which Baghdad rejected.
Abbasi continued that the government is proceeding with its plan to end the international coalition’s mission and has made arrangements for this, with the coming days expected to see the signing of the agreement reached in Washington. The Iraqi minister emphasized that the communications conducted by the government and the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a significant role in easing tensions in the region and avoiding the expansion of conflict, stressing that it is in Iraq’s interest to distance itself from any axis.
The U.S. has maintained a military presence in Iraq for several key reasons over the years, primarily focusing on counterterrorism efforts and regional stability. Initially, the U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003 under the Bush administration, citing the need to disarm Iraq of weapons of mass destruction, end Saddam Hussein’s support for terrorism, and free the Iraqi people. The narrative around weapons of mass destruction was central, although it later proved to be unfounded, shifting the focus to promoting democracy and human rights in Iraq.
After the defeat of Saddam Hussein, the focus shifted towards stabilizing the region and countering the insurgency that ensued. In the years that followed, especially with the rise of ISIS, U.S. troops remained to support Iraqi forces in ensuring that ISIS could not reconstitute itself. The presence of U.S. forces has also been seen as a counter to Iranian influence in the region, a significant concern for U.S. policymakers.
The ongoing U.S. presence has involved training, advising, and assisting Iraqi security forces as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. This mission reflects a broader strategy to ensure a secure, stable, and sovereign Iraq, which continues to face threats from ISIS and other militant groups.
