The United States is set to officially end its military presence in Iraq today, completing the withdrawal of its forces after more than two decades. The decision aligns with the Trump administration's policy.

US forces first entered Iraq in 2003 under President George W. Bush to overthrow Saddam Hussein's regime, citing claims of chemical and biological weapons possession and nuclear development. The fall of Hussein's Sunni regime led to the rise of the Shiite majority, supported by the US, and indirectly contributed to the formation of ISIS, which later prompted a US return in 2014 after an initial withdrawal in 2011. Current US forces will be minimal, focused on intelligence gathering and air defense for the diplomatic mission. Iranian-aligned Iraqi Shiite militias are celebrating the withdrawal, viewing it as a victory.