American forces are set to leave their last bases in Iraq by today, Wednesday; a withdrawal during which 4,500 Americans lost their lives over more than two decades of war. Ahmed Rashid reported yesterday, Tuesday, in Reuters that Iraqi security experts say this withdrawal (which was agreed upon in 2024 during Joe Biden's presidency and implemented by Donald Trump's administration) could give other enemies of the U.S., including ISIS, an opportunity to return. Jassim Al-Bahadli, an Iraqi security analyst, stated that militia groups not only view this withdrawal as a victory for their movement but will also 'attempt to use this opportunity to gain more influence over security and political decision-making.'
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End of Two Decades of American Forces in Iraq
Sep 30, 2026
September 30, 2026
1 min read
📰 Donya-e-Eqtesad
📋 Key Takeaway
American forces are withdrawing from Iraq after two decades, marking a significant military transition. Iraqi security analysts warn that this could empower groups like ISIS and local militias to increase their influence. The situation is critical as it may reshape the security landscape in Iraq and the region.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
The end of U.S. military presence in Iraq could reshape the security landscape, empowering local militias and extremist groups.
👥 Key Players
Joe Biden
MENTIONED
President of the United States
"Biden's administration agreed to the withdrawal, marking a shift in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East."
Donald Trump
MENTIONED
Former President of the United States
"Trump's administration initiated the withdrawal process, impacting U.S. military presence in the region."
Jassim Al-Bahadli
MENTIONED
Iraqi security analyst
"Provides insight into the implications of the U.S. withdrawal on local security dynamics."
ISIS
MENTIONED
Terrorist organization
"Potentially regaining strength in the power vacuum left by U.S. forces."
Iraqi militia groups
MENTIONED
Local armed factions
"May exploit the withdrawal to increase their influence over Iraq's political and security landscape."
📰 What Happened
American forces are withdrawing from their last bases in Iraq after two decades of military presence. This withdrawal has raised concerns about the resurgence of groups like ISIS and the empowerment of local militias.
- 4,500 American lives were lost during the two-decade conflict.
- The withdrawal was agreed upon during Biden's presidency but implemented under Trump's administration.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: The withdrawal may embolden Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, allowing Iran to increase its influence in the region.
🌍 Regional: It could lead to a power vacuum that allows extremist groups like ISIS to regain strength, destabilizing Iraq and neighboring countries.
🌐 International: The U.S. withdrawal reflects a broader trend of reducing military presence in the Middle East, affecting international security strategies.
📚 Background
The U.S. has been involved in Iraq since 2003, following the invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. The withdrawal marks a significant shift in U.S. military strategy.
U.S.-Iran relations
Rise of ISIS
📡 Source:
NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
Reuters is generally considered a reliable source for international news, providing a balanced perspective.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
🌐
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%
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