U.S. Concludes 12-Year Mission in Iraq With Complete Troop Withdrawal

Chattanooga, TN, September 30, 2026 —

The United States military has officially concluded its 12-year mission in Iraq with the complete withdrawal of American forces from the country. The final contingent of U.S. troops departed from an air base located in northern Iraq, marking the end of an operation that primarily focused on combating the Islamic State group.

The withdrawal is seen by Iraq as a significant affirmation of its national sovereignty. However, the departure of U.S. forces has also brought about new concerns among segments of the Iraqi population. In particular, individuals in the Kurdish region have voiced apprehension regarding the potential for a resurgence of the Islamic State group. Additionally, there are heightened worries about an increase in attacks orchestrated by Iran-backed militias.

The 12-year mission was initiated with the objective of countering the influence and operations of the Islamic State. The specifics regarding the final number of departing troops or the exact date of their departure were not detailed in the announcement. The logistical and strategic implications of this withdrawal for regional security remain a subject of ongoing observation and discussion.

The impact of the U.S. troop presence and subsequent withdrawal on the political and security landscape of Iraq has been substantial over the past decade. As the mission concludes, attention is turning to the capacity of Iraqi security forces to maintain stability and address ongoing threats independently.

Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.wdef.com, see more information here.