US and UK Troops Exit Iraq as Anti-IS Mission Ends

The final contingent of UK and US troops has departed Iraq, concluding the international coalition mission against the Islamic State group. The withdrawal, completed on [date], follows a deal struck two years ago that was a central demand of the Iraqi government.

The coalition, which included forces from dozens of countries, had been operating in Iraq since 2014 to combat IS after the group seized large swathes of territory. At its peak, the mission involved thousands of troops providing training, air support, and ground operations. The Iraqi government has insisted its security forces are now capable of handling residual threats.

The departure marks a significant reduction in Western military presence in Iraq, though some NATO personnel remain for advisory roles. Regional analysts warn that IS cells continue to pose a threat, and the withdrawal could create a security vacuum. The US and UK have pledged continued support through other means, but the move is likely to be scrutinized amid ongoing instability in the region.