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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 30, 2026

US Military Completes Withdrawal from Iraq

Pentagon confirms end of mission, shifting focus to training and advising.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
US Military Completes Withdrawal from Iraq

The United States military has completed its withdrawal from Iraq, marking the end of a nearly two-decade mission. The Pentagon confirmed the departure, stating that U.S. forces will now focus on training and advising Iraqi security forces.

This withdrawal signifies a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and military posture in the Middle East. The initial deployment of U.S. troops to Iraq occurred in 2003, leading to the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime. Over the years, the mission evolved from combat operations to counter-terrorism efforts and, most recently, to providing support and training.

The decision to withdraw comes amid evolving geopolitical landscapes and a desire to reallocate resources to other strategic priorities. While U.S. troops are no longer engaged in direct combat operations, the U.S. remains committed to supporting Iraq's sovereignty and security through continued advisory roles and security assistance. This phased withdrawal has been a key objective for both the Iraqi government and the U.S. administration, aimed at enabling Iraq to fully assume responsibility for its own defense.

Simultaneously, separate polling data indicates that a majority of Americans are looking for populist policies that do not align with traditional political labels. This suggests a potential public appetite for candidates and platforms that transcend conventional party ideologies, focusing instead on specific issues and constituent needs. The market also faces challenges, with chilly conditions and debates surrounding AI safety impacting the typical blockbuster initial public offering season on Wall Street.


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