US Forces Set to Complete Withdrawal from Iraq

US troops are preparing to depart their final bases in Iraq by Wednesday, concluding a military presence that began in 2003.

United States military forces are set to complete their withdrawal from their last bases in Iraq by Wednesday, ending a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion, CBC News and The Jerusalem Post reported. Over more than two decades of war in the country, approximately 4,500 American service members were killed.

According to the reports, Baghdad has framed the departure as a symbol of national sovereignty, while Iran and its regional allies, who hold deep influence in the country, celebrated the withdrawal as a victory. The Jerusalem Post noted that Baghdad highlighted sovereignty despite the role Washington played in fighting ISIS and maintaining order.