Iraqis took to the streets of Baghdad to celebrate the end of the US military mission in the country, marking a major development in the relationship between Baghdad and Washington.
Crowds gathered in parts of the Iraqi capital as the United States ended its military mission in Iraq after years of involvement in the country.
The development follows a long period of US military operations in Iraq that began after the 2003 invasion and later shifted towards supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against the Islamic State group.
The US-led coalition launched its campaign against Islamic State militants in Iraq in 2014 after the group seized large areas of the country. US forces subsequently worked alongside Iraqi security forces and provided air support, training and intelligence.
Although Islamic State lost its territorial control in Iraq in 2017, US and coalition forces continued to operate in the country in support of Iraqi security forces.
VIDEO | Large crowds gather in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad to celebrate the withdrawal of US occupation forces. pic.twitter.com/kY787qOzd1
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The latest move follows agreements between Baghdad and Washington to transition away from the coalition’s military mission and towards a bilateral security relationship.
The end of the mission represents a significant moment for Iraq, where the presence of foreign troops has remained politically sensitive since the 2003 invasion.
Iraqi officials have repeatedly stressed the country’s ability to handle internal security threats through its own armed forces, while US officials have said Washington will continue security cooperation with Baghdad.
The conclusion of the US mission does not necessarily mean an end to all US-Iraq military cooperation. The two countries have continued discussions over defence ties, training and counterterrorism cooperation.
The streets of Baghdad saw celebrations as news of the mission’s conclusion spread, with residents gathering to mark the development.
The transition also comes against the backdrop of broader regional tensions and continuing concerns over militant activity in parts of the Middle East.
The United States has maintained a military presence in Iraq for more than two decades, although the size and role of its forces have changed substantially over time.
