US forces are preparing to withdraw from their last remaining bases in Iraq, drawing to a close a military presence that spanned more than 20 years, amid concerns that Iran could take advantage of the departure.
Key facts
- US forces are set to pull out from their last bases in Iraq.
- The withdrawal ends more than 20 years of US military presence in the country.
- Some 4,500 US personnel died over the course of the war in Iraq.
- There are fears Iran will exploit the withdrawal, according to Sky News.
US forces are set to pull out from their last bases in Iraq, according to Sky News, marking the end of a military presence that has stretched across more than two decades.
The departure brings to a close a chapter of American involvement in a country where 4,500 US personnel died over more than 20 years of war, Sky News reported.
The withdrawal comes despite concerns that Iran could seek to exploit the departure of US forces from Iraq, according to the outlet.
The move represents a significant shift in the US military footprint in the region, ending a presence that has been a defining feature of American foreign policy since the early 2000s.
Why it matters
The withdrawal of US forces from Iraq marks the end of one of the longest and costliest chapters of recent American military history. The departure raises questions about the future security of the region and whether rival powers such as Iran could gain greater influence in Iraq.
Frequently asked questions
Why are US forces leaving Iraq?
According to Sky News, US forces are set to pull out from their last bases in Iraq, ending more than 20 years of military presence, though the report does not detail the full reasons behind the decision.
How many US personnel died during the war in Iraq?
Sky News reports that 4,500 US personnel died over more than 20 years of war in Iraq.
What are the concerns about the withdrawal?
There are fears that Iran will exploit the US withdrawal from Iraq, according to Sky News.