Pentagon to Reduce US Troops in Iraq by Next Year
- The Pentagon has finalized plans to end the U.S.-led mission against ISIS in Iraq by September 2025.
- The Biden administration maintains that this is not a complete withdrawal, with troop numbers remaining uncertain.
- Concerns about the implications for regional stability and the fight against ISIS have been raised, particularly regarding Iranian influence.
In Iraq, the Pentagon has finalized plans to conclude the U.S.-led mission against ISIS by September 2025, with many troops expected to leave their long-occupied bases. The Biden administration clarified that this does not equate to a complete withdrawal, as the number of the 2,500 troops currently stationed remains uncertain. The Iraqi government has reached an agreement with the U.S. to reduce troop presence over the next two years, which has raised concerns about the ongoing fight against ISIS and the stability of the region, particularly regarding Iranian influence. U.S. officials emphasize that the military mission is evolving rather than ending, and they aim to maintain support for U.S. forces in Syria from Iraq. The situation is complicated by increased attacks on U.S. forces in the region, particularly following the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The U.S. military presence in the Middle East is also expanding, with additional troops being deployed to bolster security in the area.