U.S. to complete Iraq withdrawal by 30 September, Prime Minister says

The United States will complete the withdrawal of its military forces from Iraq by 30 September, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced during a meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday. 

The move marks the end of a U.S. military presence in the Middle Eastern country that began with the 2003 invasion. 

Speaking alongside Trump in the Oval Office, al-Zaidi said the withdrawal would conclude a phased transition agreed between Baghdad and Washington, with Iraqi security forces assuming full responsibility for the country's security.

The Pentagon said most U.S. personnel have already departed, with the remaining troops serving primarily in advisory roles.

Trump said the United States no longer believed it needed a military presence in Iraq, while highlighting plans to deepen economic ties with Baghdad.

"Iraq has tremendous potential because of their oil," Trump said, adding that American companies would pursue new investment opportunities in the country's energy sector.

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The U.S. first invaded Iraq in 2003 to overthrow Saddam Hussein. Although American combat troops withdrew in 2011, thousands returned in 2014 to support Iraqi forces in the fight against Islamic State.

Under a 2024 agreement, Washington and Baghdad began gradually winding down the U.S.-led coalition mission.

Al-Zaidi stressed that while American troops would leave Iraq, U.S. businesses would continue operating in the country as Baghdad seeks greater investment in its oil, gas and power sectors. 

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