As the date of September 30 approaches, questions in Iraq are rising regarding the reality of the US withdrawal, and whether this date represents an actual end to the US military presence, or if Washington will transition to another form of presence within the country.
According to the announced agreement between Baghdad and Washington, the mission of the international coalition in Iraq is set to end and its forces are expected to complete their withdrawal by September 30, 2026, while US forces have already begun withdrawing their personnel and equipment from the Kurdistan region, after withdrawing from bases in other parts of the country.
In this regard, Deputy Duha Al-Bahdali said in a press statement, which "Video News Agency" has seen, that "the Iraqi military and security institution in all its branches and formations has reached an advanced stage of readiness and capability, and is fully capable of handling the security file, securing the borders, and deterring any external or internal threats without the need for any foreign umbrella or guardianship."
She added that "the attempts to promote the existence of a security vacuum after the withdrawal are mere flimsy pretexts aimed at circumventing the national decision," noting that "ending the presence of foreign troops represents a fundamental step towards consolidating complete sovereignty and that our heroic forces are a true safeguard and are ready to maintain the security and stability of the country away from any external dictates."
For his part, Deputy Mukhtar Al-Mousawi said in a press statement, which "Video News Agency" has seen, that "Iraq being free of any foreign presence will positively reflect on the security scene, as all experiences have proven that such a presence has negative impacts and interventions that do not serve security and stability."
He added that "the exit of US forces at the end of this month is an important step, and comes as a result of decisions from the House of Representatives and with popular support," pointing out that "the departure of those forces will not negatively affect the security situation and will have no repercussions."
He noted that "the Iraqi security forces have been leading the fight against terrorism for many years, through intelligence efforts and field strikes, and thus the attempts by some to question their capabilities and mix the cards are inaccurate messages."
He emphasized that "the Iraqi security forces are capable of maintaining the security pathway and combating terrorism, and Iraq has reached a very important security stage by relying on its capabilities in confronting the remnants of terrorist organizations and organized crime."
Accordingly, Iraq stands at a new stage, characterized by a greater transfer of security responsibilities to its national institutions, amidst challenges related to air defense capabilities, intelligence, and counter-terrorism, as well as the need for coordination between Baghdad and Erbil.