In 2014, the US returned to Iraq to help the government there take back territory from the Islamic State. However, both countries will begin formal talks in the coming days; this could lead to the eventual withdrawal of American troops from the country.
This is a significant milestone in the years-long effort by the two countries to fight the Islamic State. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani and other top-ranking officials from the Iraqi armed forces and the US met in Baghdad.
The joint commission began the commencement of the first round of bilateral dialogue between Iraq and the US to end the coalition in Iraq. The decision to move forward with the discussions comes days after Iranian-backed forces in Iraq launched a barrage of missiles on a US base.
The attack injured at least four service members and one Iraqi. However, defense officials said the latest attack on the US forces didn’t factor into the decision. The negotiations would have started sooner had the Israeli-Hamas war not begun.
ALSO READ: Illinois Suburb Cancels Migrant Housing Plans After Councilman’s “Sign–Up Sheet” Proposal Goes Viral
As the Israeli-Hamas war rages on, US forces in Iraq and Syria have faced frequent attacks by Iran-backed militants. The attacks have been retaliatory attacks of the US support for Israel. Sixty attacks have been launched on US forces in Iraq and more than 90 on the troops in Syria.
Currently, there are about 2500 US troops still deployed in Iraq and 900 in Syria as part of the coalition formed to help fight the resurgence of the Islamic State. The US says it aims to set up a committee to negotiate the terms of the mission’s end.
The US deployed troops to train and advise Iraqi security forces to ensure that ISIS doesn’t regain control. Since the Islamic State lost its hold on Iraq, officials have called for the withdrawal of troops. However, the US needs to transition its support for Iraq toward building “a lasting and sustainable military capacity.” This process is to prevent another ISIS takeover of the state.
Although The Pentagon has maintained that the Iraqi government has not formally asked the US military to withdraw, talks have begun about the military presence in the country. The Pentagon emphasized that the troops were still there at the invitation of the Iraqi government. And there is no set deadline for a conclusion.
ALSO READ: Teacher Who Claims School Fired Her for Her Christian Beliefs Wins Right To Appeal
An official said, “If we leave now, with no plans in place, we’re sending the patient back out on the street, with no plan to stay healthy.” He added, “Chances are, if things go bad, the troops will end up right back there. And it’s the most expensive, least efficient way to help them.”
Another official said, “I think they recognize it will be difficult for them to survive without US assistance.” Furthermore, the US agreed with Iraq to launch “expert working groups of military and defense professionals.” The two countries are also working to reshape the future relationship.
While the US said the decision to discuss withdrawal was decided upon before October 7, ISIS in Iraq took credit. ISIS declared in a statement that the decision of the Americans proves that the US only understands the language of force. Due to this, ISIS promised to continue its attacks to quicken America’s exit from the country.
You Might Also Like:
Trial of Michigan School Shooter’s Parents To Set Precedent for Mass Shooting Cases
Former Trump Lawyer Rudy Giuliani Raises Less Than $1 Million in Legal Fund
Nikki Haley Turns Trump’s Comment Into Merch, Sells to Donors for Five Bucks
Ex Wants Answers After Authorities Find Three Kansas City Chiefs Fans Dead Outside Home
RNC Member Drops Out of Presidential Race To Name Trump the GOP’s “Presumptive” Nominee
