The Biden administration has confirmed that the U.S. military’s decade-long mission against the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq will transition from an international coalition to a bilateral defense partnership with Iraq over the next year.
The shift comes after significant achievements against ISIS, which once controlled vast territories in Iraq and Syria.
While the U.S. presence will be reduced, officials emphasized that this does not equate to a full withdrawal.
Approximately 2,500 U.S. troops will remain to advise Iraqi security forces, and operations targeting ISIS in Syria from bases in Iraq’s Kurdish region will continue until September 2026.
Despite the progress made, U.S. officials warn that ISIS remains a threat, operating in other regions like Afghanistan and sub-Saharan Africa.
The administration is committed to maintaining a strong partnership with Iraq to ensure continued security and effectiveness against terrorist threats. Pentagon representatives highlighted the improved capabilities of Iraqi forces and affirmed that U.S. troops are in Iraq at the invitation of the Iraqi government.
