US-Iraq Deal: Near Quarter Century Long Pentagon Occupation to Finally End
On September 8, 2024, the governments of Iraq and the United States reached a historic agreement marking the end of the US-led coalition troop presence in Iraq. Sources confirm that remaining American and Western allied troops will withdraw from the country by September 2025, with the final exit scheduled by the end of 2026.
Background of the Occupation
The nearly quarter-century-long occupation began with the 2003 'shock and awe' bombing of Baghdad and full-scale invasion under the Bush-Cheney administration. The US overthrew Saddam Hussein, leading to years of chaos, an anti-US insurgency, and the rise of terror groups such as AQI and ISIS. This period was marked by significant civilian casualties, with estimates ranging into the hundreds of thousands, if not over a million.
The government established post-Saddam has been allied with Tehran and dominated by Shia politicians and their interests.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the Pentagon justified its presence in Iraq as necessary for combating ISIS. However, widespread efforts in the Iraqi parliament and among the general population called for the removal of foreign troops. Political leaders in Iraqi Kurdistan, however, have been the most supportive of the US presence.
US bases and the embassy have faced attacks by Iran-aligned Shia paramilitary groups, with the Iraqi Army accused of giving these groups free rein.
Agreement Details
A senior US official stated that the agreement is in place, with the only remaining question being the timing of its announcement.
The US withdrawal was initially planned for earlier in the summer but was postponed.