> US forces exit Iraq after two decades, leaving opening for Iran

Summary

US forces leave country where 4,500 of them died in worst US war of 21st century
Departure boosts powerful allies of Iran, even as Washington wages war against Tehran
Iraqi security officials say pullout could also provide room for Islamic State to revive
Last US soldier killed in Iraq in July

BAGHDAD, Sept 29 (Reuters) - US forces are set to pull out from their last bases in Iraq by Wednesday, a departure celebrated as a victory by Iran and its allies ​who now have deep influence in the country where 4,500 Americans died during more than two decades of war.

Iraqi security experts say the withdrawal — agreed in 2024 under President Joe Biden and carried ‌out by Donald Trump's administration even as it wages war against Iran — could give Tehran and its powerful allies free rein, while also allowing other US enemies to stage a comeback, including Islamic State.

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-ea … 026-09-29/