US Troops Leave Iraq After Two Decades

In late September 2026, US forces completed their withdrawal from Iraq, ending a military presence that lasted about two decades. The troops left their last bases, and Baghdad described the departure as a matter of sovereignty.

The withdrawal leaves an opening for Iran to expand its influence, and Iraqi authorities have delayed disarming Iran-backed militias until June 2027. There are also fears that ISIS could carry out attacks and questions about what the exit means for Kurds.