US troops set to leave Iraq after more than 20 years
The planned withdrawal is being welcomed by Iran and its allies but worries Iraqi security experts.
In 30 seconds
Written by the desk, checked before publishUS forces are expected to leave their remaining bases in Iraq by Wednesday, ending a military presence that lasted more than two decades. Iran and its allies see the move as a victory, while Iraqi security experts fear it could expand Tehran’s influence.
- US forces are expected to leave their remaining Iraqi bases by Wednesday.
- The withdrawal was agreed in 2024 under President Joe Biden.
- President Donald Trump’s administration is carrying out the departure.
- Iran and its allies have celebrated the planned withdrawal.
- Iraqi security experts warn that Iran could gain more freedom to act in Iraq.
What we can confirm
Each line is checked on its own. A story is never “true” as a whole.
Claim ledger
Every line traces to a named sourceUS forces are set to complete their withdrawal from Iraq by Wednesday.
- reportedSouth China Morning Post
The withdrawal was agreed in 2024 under President Joe Biden.
- reportedSouth China Morning Post
Iran and its allies view the withdrawal as a victory.
- reportedSouth China Morning Post
The withdrawal could increase Iran’s influence and freedom of action in Iraq.
- reportedSouth China Morning Post
How it unfolded
Built from the timestamps on each report, not from a press release.
The US war and military presence in Iraq began
The United States and Iraq agreed on a withdrawal plan
US forces are expected to leave their last Iraqi bases
How outlets are framing it
Same facts, different emphasis. We show the spread rather than pick a winner.
They have celebrated the US departure as a victory.
They warn that the withdrawal could give Iran and its powerful allies greater freedom in Iraq.
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Revision history
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First publication.
What happened
The United States is set to withdraw its remaining forces from Iraq by Wednesday. The departure follows an agreement reached in 2024 under President Joe Biden and is being carried out by Donald Trump’s administration. About 4,500 Americans died during the more than 20-year US war and military presence in Iraq. Iran and its allies have welcomed the withdrawal. Iraqi security experts, however, warn that it could give Iran and its powerful partners greater freedom to shape events in Iraq. The future role of other US rivals has not been established.
Why it matters
The withdrawal could change the balance of power in Iraq, where Iran already has strong influence through its allies.
What happens next
US forces are expected to leave their last Iraqi bases by Wednesday. The effects on Iraq’s security and on Iran’s influence will become clearer after the withdrawal is completed.