The United States and Iraq have announced that they will begin discussions on the future of American and other foreign troops in the country. This comes as Iraq’s prime minister, who relies on the support of Iran-aligned parties, has called for the coalition forces to leave. The talks, which have been planned for months, will aim to establish a timeline for reducing the presence of foreign troops in Iraq.
Heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, due to the war between Israel and Hamas, have led to a surge in attacks on American and other coalition forces. In response, Washington and Baghdad have agreed to form working groups that will eventually lead to a specific and clear timeline for the gradual reduction of coalition forces in Iraq. The timeline will be contingent on evaluating the threat posed by Daesh (ISIS) and reinforcing the capacities of the Iraqi security forces.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin confirmed that meetings would start in the coming days and stated that the process will enable the transition to an enduring bilateral security partnership between the United States and Iraq. Austin emphasized that the timeline for reducing coalition forces will consider three key factors: the threat from Daesh, operational and environmental requirements, and the capability levels of the Iraqi security forces.
Currently, there are approximately 2,500 US troops deployed in Iraq and about 900 in Syria as part of the anti-Daesh coalition formed in 2014. The upcoming meetings between the United States and Iraq will not be a negotiation on the withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. However, Washington acknowledges the need to transition to a normal bilateral security cooperation relationship with Iraq, indicating that Baghdad’s desire for a reduction in US forces is on the table.
Since mid-October, there have been more than 150 attacks targeting coalition troops, with many of them claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of Iran-linked groups opposing US support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. In response to the spike in attacks, the United States has carried out strikes on Iran-backed groups, which has drawn condemnation from Baghdad. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al-Sudani has called on the coalition to withdraw from the country.
The recent attempted drone attack on a base housing coalition troops in Iraqi Kurdistan was thwarted when the aircraft was shot down by the autonomous region’s anti-terrorism forces. The situation remains tense, and the Iraqi government is determined to address the ongoing attacks targeting international military bases.
During a visit to Iraq, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares expressed concern over the constant attacks against international military bases. Spain has more than 300 troops deployed to Iraq and is committed to staying as long as requested by the Iraqi government. Albares emphasized the need to avoid a spillover effect of the crisis in Gaza.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani stated that Daesh is no longer a danger for the Iraqi state, and the country’s armed forces are fully capable of maintaining security and stability. A senior US military official estimated that there are around 1,000 Daesh members in Iraq and Syria, including facilitators, fighters, and financiers.
The discussions between the United States and Iraq regarding the future of foreign troops in the country are crucial for both parties. It is essential to address the threat posed by Daesh while also considering the desires of the Iraqi government and its people. The outcome of these talks will shape the future security partnership between the United States and Iraq and contribute to the stability of the region as a whole.