US Forces Exit Iraq, Ending Two Decades of Military Presence

For Iran and its regional proxies, the withdrawal is being framed as a historic victory. Analysts note that the removal of American troops strips away a crucial counterweight to Iranian influence, allowing Tehran-aligned militias to tighten their grip on Iraq’s security and political apparatus. Abu Mojtaba al Yasiri, a commander within the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, hailed the move as a triumph for national sovereignty, mirroring the sentiment of Iranian officials who see the exit as a path toward regional stability under their own terms.

However, the transition poses severe risks for the Iraqi government. Despite the popularity of the departure, local leaders like Sunni tribal figure Abdulrahman al Zobaie warn that national security forces remain underprepared to manage the country without American logistical and intelligence support. The loss of U.S. drone capabilities and surveillance is already prompting concerns among Kurdish and Iraqi commanders, who report increased movement by Islamic State sleeper cells. As Washington pivots away from its direct military role, Baghdad faces the delicate task of preventing a resurgence of militancy while navigating the competing ambitions of Tehran and domestic armed factions.