The military footprint that began over a decade ago has finally vanished. The last British and American troops have packed their gear and left Iraq, formally bringing Operation Inherent Resolve to a close. For years, Western forces maintained a base presence to counter the Islamic State group, operating from facilities like Al-Asad Air Base. Now, that chapter is officially over.
If you are wondering what happens next, you are not alone. The exit marks a massive geopolitical pivot, but it also leaves major questions hanging over Baghdad's security apparatus. Let us look at what led to this moment and why the transition carries massive risks.
Why the Coalition Pulled Out Now
The writing has been on the wall for a long time. Backroom negotiations between Washington and Baghdad set the wheels in motion years ago, with both governments agreeing that the anti-IS coalition mission had run its course.
The security landscape in Iraq changed dramatically. While the extremist group once controlled vast swathes of territory, Iraqi security forces largely restored territorial control. Maintaining a heavy Western military footprint stopped making tactical sense. Instead, it became a lightning rod for regional tensions.
Constant friction with Iran-backed militias turned local bases into active targets. When the broader regional conflicts flared up, American and British personnel found themselves dodging rockets and drone strikes rather than focusing solely on counter-terrorism training. The decision to leave was accelerated by the reality that remaining troops risked becoming permanent targets in someone else's regional war.
The Security Vacuum and the Iran Factor
You cannot talk about the exit of foreign troops without addressing the elephant in the room: Iran's massive influence. Critics of the withdrawal point out an obvious truth. When the United States ousted Saddam Hussein decades ago, it inadvertently paved the way for Tehran to expand its security and political footprint inside Iraq.
With Western forces gone, the balance of power shifts. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi hailed the departure as a new phase of national sovereignty and institutional strength. Yet, the domestic reality on the ground is messier than official speeches suggest.
The departure was supposed to coincide with the disarmament of powerful Iran-backed militias. That disarmament hasn't happened. Many of these armed groups have ignored or outright defied government calls to stand down. Prime Minister al-Zaidi has since pushed the timeline for militia disarmament out to June 2027, starting with a fragile 90-day ceasefire. Handling these armed factions is now entirely an Iraqi responsibility. There is no foreign safety net left.
What Happens to Regional Stability
The departure transforms the relationship between Baghdad and Western capitals. Military patrols and joint combat operations are out. Standard bilateral partnerships, intelligence-sharing agreements, and diplomatic channels are in.
Yet, local commanders and defense analysts are holding their breath. A total vacuum invites opportunists. Remnants of the Islamic State group still operate in isolated pockets, waiting for a distraction to regroup. Meanwhile, regional powers are watching closely to see if the Iraqi state can hold its own borders without foreign boots on the ground.
The exit closes a turbulent chapter of modern military history. Whether Iraq can manage its own security or slide back into internal instability will define the region for the next decade. Keep your eyes on Baghdad over the coming months because the real test is just beginning.
