world 30 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
US Troops Exit Iraq, Leaving Nation Balancing Hope and Deep-Seated Fears
As the final US forces depart Iraq, marking the end of a 19-year military presence, celebrations are tinged with anxiety over potential security gaps and the growing influence of Iran-backed militias. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/world/joy-mixed-with-fear-as-us-forces-quit-iraq-leaving-potential-security-vacuum-5615292
Iraqis celebrated the complete withdrawal of US-led coalition forces on Wednesday, a departure that concluded a military engagement initiated by the 2003 invasion. This marks the end of a protracted war that brought significant devastation to the country, from which it is still recovering.
While many Iraqis expressed joy at the end of the foreign military presence, a palpable sense of unease lingers. Concerns are high that the vacuum left by US troops could embolden Iran-backed militias or create an opening for the resurgence of the Islamic State group. This sentiment was echoed by Baghdad resident Ahmed Salah, who, despite feeling “reborn,” urged militia groups to disarm and allow the government to assume full security responsibility.
The withdrawal, agreed upon in 2024, saw the final troops leave from an airbase in Erbil. This operation, “Operation Inherent Resolve,” officially concluded, though the US stated it would continue to offer intelligence and training support to Iraqi partners. The presence of US forces had been intermittent since their initial withdrawal in 2011, particularly returning in 2014 to combat the Islamic State’s rapid territorial gains.
Analysts and citizens alike are questioning Iraq’s readiness to manage its security independently. “Security vacuums can be extremely dangerous,” warned Iraqi analyst Jassim al-Bahadli, pointing to the continued presence of militias operating outside state control and the lingering threat of ISIS remnants. Political analyst Ahmed Younis noted the possibility of Iranian proxies feeling more empowered without a Western military presence, potentially influencing state policies.
Retired Iraqi Army General Mohammed al-Jubouri emphasized the critical need for a robust “Plan B” from Iraq’s security institutions to navigate this new phase. The nation now faces the challenge of maintaining stability and combating terrorism independently, with the success of this transition heavily scrutinized in the years to come.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)