US Leaves Iraq After Years of War: Troop Exit Sparks Kurdish Security Fears

The US has completed its troop withdrawal from Iraq, ending a years-long military mission against ISIS. The exit has raised security concerns in the Kurdish region and changed the country’s strategic landscape.

Post Published By: Sreeja Chowdhury

Updated : 30 September 2026, 3:19 PM IST

Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee at INDIA bloc meeting in Delhi (Img: Pinterest)

Baghdad: The United States has completed the withdrawal of its troops from Iraq, bringing an end to a years-long military mission that was focused on supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). The development marks a major shift in Iraq’s security landscape, with concerns emerging over the future of regional stability.

The US-led coalition had maintained a military presence in Iraq since 2014, when ISIS captured large areas of the country. American forces worked alongside Iraqi security forces to conduct counter-terror operations and provide training, intelligence and logistical support.

US Mission Against ISIS Comes to an End

The withdrawal follows a phased process agreed between Washington and Baghdad. The US had gradually reduced its military presence as Iraqi security forces took greater responsibility for counter-terror operations.

While Iraqi forces have improved their capabilities over the years, security officials and analysts have continued to point out challenges, including the presence of ISIS sleeper cells and regional tensions.

Kurdish Region Worried After US Exit

The withdrawal has raised concerns among Kurdish authorities in northern Iraq. The semi-autonomous Kurdistan region had a close security partnership with the US and relied on American assistance in areas such as training, intelligence sharing and military support.

Kurdish officials have expressed concerns that the absence of US forces could create additional security challenges at a time when the region faces multiple threats.

Iran-Backed Groups Welcome Withdrawal

The US exit has been welcomed by several Iran-aligned groups in Iraq, who have long demanded the departure of American forces. They have described the withdrawal as a step towards strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty.

However, critics of the move have warned that the reduced US presence could alter the balance of power among various groups operating in the country.

Iraq Faces New Security Phase

With the US military mission now concluded, Iraqi authorities face the challenge of maintaining security while dealing with political divisions, armed groups and remaining extremist threats.

The withdrawal marks the end of another chapter in US-Iraq relations, which have been shaped by decades of conflict, military intervention and counter-terror operations.