The Pentagon has not disclosed specific details about U.S. troop levels as the mission shifts from a U.S.-led coalition to a bilateral partnership. According to a joint statement released on Sept. 27 by the United States and Iraq, there are plans to transition from the current U.S.-led global coalition fighting ISIS to a bilateral security partnership.
Over the next 12 months, the coalition’s military mission in Iraq will evolve to focus on supporting Iraqi forces while continuing to exert pressure on ISIS. This transition will involve U.S. troops vacating some bases they have occupied for the past two decades. The statement, issued after extensive discussions between the U.S.–Iraq Higher Military Commission and coalition partners, outlines a plan to conclude the coalition’s military mission by September 2025.
The Pentagon has not yet provided details on the number of the 2,500 U.S. troops remaining in Iraq or whether there will be a complete withdrawal. During a press conference, U.S. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh mentioned that there will be changes to the U.S. footprint in the country but did not specify troop numbers.
The strategic relationship between the U.S. and Iraq remains crucial to their defense planning as they progress. The statement confirms that the military mission in Iraq will end by September 2025, while operations in Syria will continue until at least September 2026 to prevent ISIS from regaining a foothold in the region.
A senior Pentagon official reiterated the commitment to defeating ISIS, acknowledging the ongoing threat posed by the group. The transition to a bilateral partnership will be overseen by the Higher Military Commission, with a focus on protecting coalition advisers during the shift.
Both countries reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing security cooperation in alignment with existing agreements and the Iraqi Constitution. The transition reflects discussions held during Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani’s visit to Washington earlier this year, emphasizing a shared commitment to a stable and peaceful Iraq for a lasting partnership. Can you rewrite this sentence?
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