By George Omagbemi
BAGHDAD — September 29, 2026: The United States is set to complete the withdrawal of its remaining forces from Iraq by Wednesday, September 30, bringing an end to a more than two-decade military presence that began with the 2003 invasion and cost the lives of about 4,500 American service members.
The withdrawal, agreed by Washington and Baghdad in 2024, is being implemented as the United States continues its wider confrontation with Iran. Iran and allied armed groups in Iraq have described the American departure as a victory, reflecting Tehran’s growing influence through political and armed groups inside the country.
Reuters reported that the final U.S. troops are expected to leave the remaining bases, with many personnel being redeployed to Jordan and other locations in the region. The withdrawal also includes the removal of military equipment and air-defence systems.
Iraqi security officials and analysts, however, have raised concerns about what could follow the American departure. Some fear Iran-backed groups could gain greater influence over Iraq’s security and political decision-making, while others warn that any security vacuum could create opportunities for Islamic State to regroup.
The U.S. first withdrew its combat forces in 2011 but returned in 2014 after Islamic State captured large parts of Iraq and Syria.
The latest withdrawal marks the conclusion of that renewed military mission, although Washington and Baghdad are expected to maintain broader security cooperation.
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