US troops have left their last bases in Iraq, ending a military presence that lasted more than 23 years.
Modern.az reports with reference to foreign media that the Pentagon has issued a statement on this.
The withdrawal of US forces from Iraq has raised concerns about the country's security capabilities. Some Iraqis and experts believe that the departure of US forces could create a security vacuum in the country, strengthen the positions of Shiite armed groups linked to Iran, and give ISIS, which is regaining strength, an opportunity to regroup.
The US withdrawal from Iraq is being carried out under an agreement reached during President Joe Biden's administration in 2024. The process is being completed by the Donald Trump administration. This comes 23 years after US-led forces overthrew Saddam Hussein's regime in 2003. In subsequent years, Iraq experienced long-term conflicts and chaos, which led to the strengthening of armed groups such as ISIS. The withdrawal of US forces from the country is seen as a victory by Iran and its allies in Iraq.
The US withdrawal from Iraq is generally welcomed in the country. However, concerns remain about the ability of Iraqi security forces, funded and trained by the US, to fully protect the country. More than 4,500 US servicemen have lost their lives during the Iraq War and subsequent military operations over more than 20 years.
Nicat Rustam
