US military says its withdrawal of troops from Iraq is complete

On Wednesday, the U.S. military declared the completion of its withdrawal of all troops from Iraq, marking the end of a 12-year mission to combat the Islamic State group. The final U.S. soldiers departed an air base in the country's north following an agreement between Baghdad and Washington. This decision, reached two years ago, unfolded amidst the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which has occasionally escalated into Iraq, with Iran-backed militias targeting U.S. forces while the U.S. retaliates against their strongholds.

Throughout recent years, the U.S. has seemingly pivoted its strategic focus away from the Middle East towards Asia, though this transition has been inconsistent, with the Pentagon oscillating between reducing its presence in the region and subsequently deploying to new conflicts, such as the current Iran war. Baghdad hailed the conclusion of the U.S. mission as evidence of the nation's growing strength and independence.

The withdrawal was met with praise from Iran-backed factions but sparked apprehension among certain Iraqis, particularly those residing in the Kurdish region who harbor fears of potential resurgence.