Tue Sep 10 17:08:30 UTC 2024: ## US Troops to Begin Leaving Iraq in 2025, Raising Concerns about Iran’s Influence

**WASHINGTON** – The United States is preparing to draw down its troop presence in Iraq as early as next year, according to a new report by Reuters. While the Pentagon declined to confirm the specifics of the plan, officials have acknowledged ongoing discussions with Iraqi counterparts on troop withdrawal.

Under the proposed timeline, hundreds of US troops would leave Iraq by September 2025, with the remaining forces departing by January 2027. The move would bring an end to the US’s decade-long military presence in Iraq, which began in 2014 with the mission to combat the Islamic State.

The planned withdrawal has sparked concerns among experts, who warn that it could further empower Iran’s influence in Iraq. The US currently maintains a significant troop presence in Iraq, which serves as a strategic position against the growing threat of Iran.

“Our continued presence, while necessary during the fight against ISIS, now risks contributing to instability rather than achieving long-term peace,” said Jason Beardsley, a former senior Defense official. “Recent events have shown that Iraqi forces are increasingly capable of managing their own security.”

Bill Roggio, a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, echoed these concerns, highlighting Iran’s deep infiltration within Iraqi security forces. “They get free rein in Iraq to do their bidding,” he said, adding that the withdrawal would also hamper efforts against the Islamic State.

The US initially invaded Iraq in 2003, toppling Saddam Hussein’s regime, and withdrew troops in 2011. They returned in 2014 to lead the coalition against ISIS, with troops remaining in Iraq and Syria to this day.

The reported troop withdrawal comes at a time when the Iraqi government is navigating a delicate balance between its alliance with Washington and its close ties with Tehran. While Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has expressed appreciation for US support, he has also acknowledged the vulnerability of US forces to Iranian-backed militia groups.

The US withdrawal from Iraq is likely to be a complex and consequential decision, with significant implications for regional stability and the fight against ISIS.

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