Trump announces complete withdrawal of US forces from Iraq

The United States has announced plans to withdraw all remaining troops from Iraq, signalling the end of a nearly two-decade military presence in the country. The decision reflects a broader shift in American foreign policy priorities in the Middle East and comes as Iraq's security situation has evolved significantly since the peak of conflict years.

The withdrawal represents the culmination of efforts to reduce Washington's military footprint in the region. American forces have maintained a presence in Iraq since 2003, initially as part of major combat operations and later in advisory and counter-terrorism capacities.

Iraq's government and security forces have progressively taken on greater responsibility for national security operations in recent years. The country has made notable progress in degrading militant groups that once controlled significant territory, including the remnants of extremist organisations that declared themselves as a caliphate at the height of their territorial control.

The move carries implications for regional stability and US strategic positioning in the Middle East. It underscores ongoing debates within the American policy establishment about the scope and duration of overseas military commitments, particularly following extended engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan.