US formally ends combat mission against ISIS in Iraq

The US-led international coalition announced the formal conclusion of its counter-terrorism mission against ISIS in Iraq, bringing to a close a military campaign that has lasted over 10 years. The operation, which also encompassed neighbouring Syria, was launched in response to the militant group's territorial expansion and attacks across the region.

The ending of the combat mission represents a major milestone in the long-running effort to degrade and contain ISIS capabilities. Coalition forces had worked alongside Iraqi security forces to reclaim territory previously held by the extremist organisation and dismantle its operational infrastructure.

The transition follows Iraq's government declaration that it had achieved sufficient capacity to manage internal security threats independently. Iraqi forces have undertaken increasingly leading roles in counter-insurgency operations in recent years, reducing the direct involvement required from international partners.

While the formal mission concludes, some international military advisers and support personnel are expected to remain in Iraq to provide training and assistance to local security forces. The shift underscores the evolving security landscape in the Middle East as regional nations assume greater responsibility for regional stability.