Pentagon: No Timeline for Troop Withdrawal from Iraq Yet
As of September 7, 2024, the Pentagon has not provided a definitive timeline for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. Despite ongoing negotiations and discussions regarding the future of the U.S. military presence in the country, no specific dates have been announced.
Current Military Presence
Approximately 2,500 U.S. troops are currently deployed in Iraq as part of the international coalition formed in 2014 to support the Iraqi government in defeating the Islamic State (ISIL). The coalition's main objective was to assist Iraqi security and military forces in their fight against ISIL.
Bilateral Talks
In recent months, the U.S. and Iraq have engaged in bilateral talks to address the future of the U.S. military presence in the country. These discussions have included the formation of a joint commission to oversee the winding down of the coalition's military mission in Iraq.
Regional Instability and Public Calls
The urgency of the talks has been heightened by regional instability and public calls from the Iraqi government for the withdrawal of U.S. troops. These calls have been in response to U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran-backed militants who have been attacking U.S. personnel in Iraq.
Advisory Role
Discussions are also underway to establish a new advisory role that could involve a smaller number of U.S. troops remaining in Iraq after the main drawdown. This advisory capacity would focus on supporting Iraq's security forces and ensuring that ISIL cannot resurge.
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