US forces exit Iraq after two decades, leaving opening for Iran, say experts

By the end of September, US forces will be leaving Iraq for the final time, marking a symbolic end to a two-decade-long military presence. This departure is seen as a significant victory by Iran and its allies, who now hold considerable influence in the country despite the 4,500 American lives lost during this prolonged conflict.

Iraqi experts argue that the withdrawal could empower Tehran and its allies, potentially allowing other adversaries such as the Islamic State to make a comeback. Jasim al-Bahadli, an Iraqi security analyst, notes that Iran stands to gain strategically from this transition, as it eliminates a military presence that has historically acted as a counterbalance to Tehran’s growing influence in Iraq.

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq has hailed the US withdrawal as a historic triumph for the resistance groups and the Iraqi people, viewing it as a significant defeat for American ambitions in Iraq. However, some worry that the withdrawal might be premature, given the current instability and the need for Iraq to fully assume security responsibilities.

Despite the popular support for the US departure, there are concerns that the groups involved may not yet be sufficiently equipped to take over the security file, potentially leaving a power vacuum. Moreover, there are fears that this could provide a lifeline to the Islamic State, which, despite its previous defeat, still maintains a sleeper cell network that could exploit the security gaps.

The Islamic State is reportedly preparing for attacks coinciding with the withdrawal, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by this extremist group.