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U.S. Forces Complete Withdrawal from Ain al-Asad Airbase in Iraq

DEFENSE

U.S. forces have fully withdrawn from Iraq's Ain al-Asad Airbase, transferring control to the Iraqi army as part of a 2024 agreement redefining U.S.-Iraq military collaboration. While most U.S. troops have left, a small number remained for logistical reasons.

The withdrawal aligns with plans for a phased departure by September 2025 and complete military exit by the end of 2026. The Iraqi Army, under Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah, has assumed full control of the base, which was previously targeted by Iran-backed groups.

The U.S. still maintains a presence in northern Iraq and Syria. The withdrawal may influence disarmament discussions of non-state armed groups in Iraq.

U.S. Forces Complete Withdrawal from Ain al-Asad Airbase in Iraq
Jan 20, 2026, 6:00 AM

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