Iraq Announces Full Coalition Withdrawal

The US-led coalition has completed its full withdrawal from all non-Kurdish regions of Iraq, a move confirmed by Baghdad officials. This development marks the end of a significant chapter in the country's recent history and the beginning of a new phase of Iraqi sovereignty.

Former coalition military installations are now officially under the full control of Iraqi security forces. The transition represents the culmination of a strategic agreement reached approximately two years prior, which outlined the framework for the withdrawal of American forces from the country.

Baghdad has formally declared that all former US military sites across non-Kurdish areas of Iraq are now under the exclusive jurisdiction of the nation's security apparatus. This transfer of authority solidifies the operational independence of Iraqi forces in these regions.

The announcement confirms the completion of a process that was set in motion two years ago, when the United States and Iraq reached a pivotal agreement. This deal established the timeline and conditions for the withdrawal of American military personnel and the handover of bases and equipment.

• Full control of military installations transferred
• Coalition presence now limited to Kurdish regions
• Agreement finalized two years prior to implementation

The complete withdrawal from non-Kurdish areas fundamentally alters the security landscape in Iraq. It places the primary responsibility for national defense and counter-terrorism operations squarely on the shoulders of the Iraqi security forces, without the direct combat support of the US-led coalition.

This shift has been a long-stated goal of the Iraqi government, emphasizing national autonomy. The transfer of control is not merely symbolic; it involves the handover of sophisticated infrastructure and equipment left behind at former coalition bases.

Baghdad says former US military sites to 'come under the full control of Iraqi security forces'

The current withdrawal is rooted in a political and military understanding established two years ago. This agreement was the result of prolonged negotiations between Baghdad and Washington, reflecting Iraq's desire to assert greater control over its own territory and security affairs.

The presence of the US-led coalition in Iraq has been a complex and evolving issue since its initial deployment. The latest development signifies a structured, agreed-upon conclusion to that chapter, moving towards a relationship based more on training and advisory roles rather than active combat deployment.

Key elements of the historical transition include:

• The foundational agreement for withdrawal
• The phased handover of military sites
• The final confirmation of full Iraqi control

With the coalition's withdrawal from non-Kurdish regions complete, the focus now shifts to the future of Iraq's security architecture. The nation's forces face the challenge of maintaining stability and security independently across these vast territories.

The relationship between Iraq and the international coalition may continue to evolve, particularly in areas of training and intelligence sharing. However, the physical presence of foreign troops in the majority of the country has now officially ended, closing a significant period of international military engagement in Iraq.

The announcement from Baghdad represents a definitive moment in Iraq's modern history. It underscores the country's journey towards full sovereign control over its security and territory.

As Iraqi forces assume complete responsibility for former coalition sites, the nation enters a new chapter defined by its own military capabilities and strategic decisions.