A joint Iraqi-American statement yesterday confirmed the end of the International Coalition’s mission in Iraq by the end of September 2025 at the latest. A statement published by the official Iraqi News Agency “INA” last night specified that “an agreement was reached to conclude the coalition’s military mission in Iraq within the next 12 months, with a deadline of no later than the end of September 2025.”
According to the statement, Iraq expressed gratitude to the international coalition for the support and assistance it provided to the Iraqi security forces in confronting this joint threat and securing the defeat of ISIS on the ground in Iraq. The United States, which has stood with Iraq during challenging times, was foremost among these nations.
The coalition also valued “Iraq’s role and the significant sacrifices made by all the Iraqi security forces in combating this terrorist organization that posed a threat to the entire world,” emphasizing “the necessity to continue all efforts to ensure that this terrorist organization does not pose any form of threat again.”
The international coalition mentioned that it “looks forward to enhancing relations between Iraq and the United States, as both countries strive to bolster security assistance and cooperation based on mutual respect.”
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.
