The United States and Iraq have initiated plans to hold talks regarding the future of American military presence in the country. These discussions are part of a broader move to transition to a bilateral security partnership between Washington and Baghdad, announced by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The aim is to ensure a gradual reduction of U.S. advisors on Iraqi soil.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani recently called for a drawdown of U.S. forces, responding to airstrikes by the U.S. on Iran-backed militants within Iraq. These militants have launched over 150 attacks on U.S. forces since October, leading to minor injuries among U.S. personnel, including traumatic brain injuries. The U.S. has retaliated with strikes on militia targets, including those linked to the Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of mainly Shiite, Iran-backed paramilitary groups.
The U.S. has proposed a two- to five-year timeline for the withdrawal, while the Iraqi government prefers a quicker timeframe. This impending discussion on the coalition’s end will likely be viewed as a victory by Iran-linked factions in Iraq.
The talks, set to be part of the U.S.-Iraq Higher Military Commission meetings, will focus on various factors including the threat posed by ISIS, operational requirements, and the capability levels of the Iraqi security forces.
Best Coverage:
