Iraq Ends US Coalition Mission
Iraq has ended its US‑led coalition mission after more than a decade of operations against the Islamic State. The withdrawal began in 2024 and concluded with the final troop exit from the northern Kurdistan region on Wednesday.
The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi, declared October 1 as Sovereignty Day to celebrate the end of foreign forces and reinforce state control over weapons. The government aims to disarm armed factions and strengthen its monopoly on arms.
Despite the coalition’s departure, tensions remain as some militant groups demand a complete withdrawal and an end to American influence. The Iraqi authorities continue to negotiate with factions to resolve the issue of weapons outside state authority.
