Why does the US control Iraq's oil revenues?

Iraq has taken charge of US forces headquarters at Baghdad International Airport and reached an agreement with Turkey on withdrawing its troops from the Bashiqa base in Nineveh province, asserting its independent security decisions. Major General Saad Maan, head of the Security Media Cell, emphasized that these actions demonstrate Iraq's capacity to maintain security cooperation with international partners while preserving its decision-making autonomy.

He highlighted that the Iraqi government now holds ultimate authority over the nature of military and security presence within its borders, and that enhancing Iraq's sovereignty and managing security matters independently is crucial for the nation's stability and regional relations. Meanwhile, the Iraqi Air Force Commander, Lieutenant General Pilot Khaled Al-Tamimi, stated that the international coalition has ceased conducting missions inside Iraq since the start of 2026, with all air operations now being handled independently.

He revealed that Iraqi F-16 jets have been carrying out missions for over a month without foreign assistance, and that the aircraft's maintenance is entirely managed by Iraqi personnel. Al-Tamimi also noted that Iraqi drones have replaced coalition aircraft in reconnaissance missions, conducting daily aerial surveys over Iraqi territory.

He pointed out that the air force conducted 58,822 missions during the fight against ISIS militants, and that the threat of terrorism has significantly diminished due to enhanced security vigilance and air capabilities. Al-Tamimi added that Iraq is engaging in negotiations with countries to acquire advanced aircraft like the Rafale, aiming to build a modern air force.

He mentioned ongoing efforts to manufacture drones locally and establish a dedicated command for this weaponry, highlighting recent joint air exercises with France, Italy, the US, and Jordan. He also stressed Iraq's possession of an integrated air defense system and its ongoing negotiations with coalition countries to support armament programs, security force training, and readiness enhancement, as Iraq transitions to bilateral relations based on agreements with some coalition nations.