What happened
The United States has ended its mission to fight ISIS in Iraq, with the last American troops assigned to the task pulling out of the country. This move marks the end of Operation Inherent Resolve, which was launched in 2014 to dismantle the extremist group's self-declared caliphate.
The Iraqi government has welcomed the end of the operation, but Kurdish officials in the north of the country have expressed concern about the decision, citing fears about the potential consequences of the withdrawal. Iran-backed militias in Iraq have attacked US personnel and diplomats in the past, and there are worries that Tehran could seek to capitalize on the US withdrawal.
According to a United Nations monitoring report, ISIS still has a limited presence in Iraq, with hundreds of fighters operating in desert areas. The group is capable of generating $500,000 annually through extortion, but is unable to conduct significant attacks.
The US expects Iraqi and Kurdish forces to lead the continuing effort to secure Iraq and keep ISIS remnants suppressed, with the Pentagon providing targeted training and intelligence support to its Iraqi partners. A smaller contingent of US forces will remain in Iraq to protect American diplomats.
Iran-backed militant groups have celebrated the US withdrawal as a victory, while ISIS is seeking to send a message that it is still powerful and capable of launching attacks.
