U.S. Withdraws From Iraq After 23 Years While Remaining Engaged in Iran Conflict
· World · The Hindu, CBS News
United States forces withdrew from their last military base in Iraq on September 30, 2026, ending a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion. Iraqi security forces celebrated the departure in Najaf as U.S. combat operations concluded, leaving the country governed by a divided administration and powerful Iran-backed Shia militias. The 2003 invasion, launched under former U.S. President George W. Bush on the premise of uncovering weapons of mass destruction, initially saw major combat operations declared over via the famous USS Abraham Lincoln carrier speech. However, the ongoing conflict with Iran has made it increasingly difficult for the U.S. to maintain a large troop presence in a hostile region. Iran and local militias have welcomed the withdrawal as a major strategic victory.
Why it matters
The complete U.S. military exit from Iraq shifts the regional balance of power, empowering Iran-backed factions and altering security architecture in the Persian Gulf.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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