The first phase of the US military withdrawal has officially started in western Iraq’s Al-Anbar province. A security source informed Shafaq News that a convoy left Ain al-Asad Air Base on Monday. Trucks carrying military vehicles are moving toward the Syrian border as part of the phased exit.
Ain al-Asad is Iraq’s second-largest air base after Balad. It lies about 10 kilometers from the town of al-Baghdadi. The base serves as a key hub for US forces and hosts the command of Iraq’s 7th Division.
This withdrawal follows a 2022 agreement between Baghdad and Washington. The deal sets September 2025 as the official start for scaling down US military presence in Iraq. US forces first returned in 2014 at Iraq’s request to lead the Global Coalition against ISIS. The coalition now includes 87 member countries.
Originally, the mission focused on combat operations against ISIS. Later, it shifted to training, intelligence gathering, and advisory roles under Operation Inherent Resolve. Currently, about 2,500 US troops remain in Iraq.
The US military withdrawal comes amid growing concerns about continued ISIS activity. US officials have issued warnings about the persistent threat. At the same time, Iraqi political groups demand full sovereignty. Pro-Iran armed factions within the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) also pressure the government.
According to sources, the withdrawal involves a two-stage plan. US troops will leave Ain al-Asad and Baghdad bases by September 2025. After that, forces will reposition to Erbil and possibly Kuwait. Combat troops will pull out, but trainers and advisors will stay.
Iraqi lawmakers have voiced concerns about the withdrawal. The parliamentary Security and Defense Committee warned it could weaken Iraq’s border security, especially near Syria. Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Baghdad emphasized the mission will continue. It will focus on bilateral security partnerships and non-combat support against ISIS.
The US military withdrawal from key bases will not end all US presence in Iraq. Strategic assets are already moving to Erbil, where a smaller advisory group will remain beyond 2025.
This drawdown coincides with complex political debates in Baghdad. Shia parties push for the controversial Hashd al-Shaabi bill despite US objections. Broader demands for full Iraqi sovereignty also shape the political landscape.
In summary, the US military withdrawal marks a major shift in Iraq’s security dynamics. The process reflects evolving military, political, and diplomatic challenges in the region.
