U.S. to withdraw most troops from Iraq by 2026

The United States and Iraq have reached a tentative agreement to withdraw most American troops from Iraq over the next two years, leaving a small force in the Kurdistan region. This plan, negotiated by officials from both nations, aims to transition the U.S.-led Operation Inherent Resolve into a sustainable security partnership. Currently, approximately 2,500 U.S. troops are stationed in Iraq, and the withdrawal will occur in two stages. A smaller American presence is expected to remain in Kurdistan to protect Iraqi Kurds from Iranian-backed militias that exert significant influence in the country. The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has maintained close ties with Iran, which has supported various powerful militias in Iraq. These militias have been pressuring the Iraqi government to finalize the U.S. military's departure. While U.S. troops are no longer engaged in regular combat operations, they still face risks, as evidenced by recent casualties at a U.S. base in Jordan. The ongoing military presence in Kurdistan is also crucial for U.S. operations in neighboring Syria, where around 900 American troops remain. The Pentagon has operated a low-profile mission in Kurdistan for years, and maintaining this presence is seen as vital for regional stability. U.S. officials have expressed concerns about the influence of Iran and its supported militias in Iraq, emphasizing the need for a strategic plan to ensure the country's stability post-withdrawal. As the situation evolves, the Iraqi public's sentiment appears to favor a reduction of U.S. troops while also desiring stability and security against threats like ISIS. The balance between maintaining a U.S. presence for security and addressing local desires for sovereignty will be a critical challenge moving forward.