Brief
US troops complete withdrawal from Iraq as Kurdish region voices security concerns
The final US contingent exited Iraq on Sept. 30, prompting Kurdish officials to warn of security gaps while Iran‑aligned militias celebrated the move.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The last United States troops left Iraq on Wednesday, Sept. 30, under an agreement between Baghdad and Washington, Independent reported.
Kurdish officials said the departure raises concerns about the loss of US air‑defence systems that have protected the semi‑autonomous northern region, which has endured over 1,000 drone and missile attacks during the recent US‑Iran conflict.
Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi told The New York Times that the original deadline for militia disarmament, linked to the US pull‑out, has been pushed to June 2027.
Iran‑backed Kataib Hezbollah militia security official Abu Mujahid al‑Assaf hailed the exit as the "expulsion of the occupation forces" and warned the Iraqi government against pursuing American plans.
Key facts
- The final US troops withdrew from Iraq on Sept. 30, 2026. (independent.co.uk)
- Kurdish officials warned the loss of US air‑defence systems could create security gaps. (independent.co.uk)
- Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi said the militia‑disarmament deadline is now June 2027. (independent.co.uk)
- Kataib Hezbollah hailed the US exit as the expulsion of occupation forces. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “As the last US troops exit Iraq, Kurdish fears rise and militias celebrate”
