How does Iraq’s security change after US forces withdraw?

What the report says

Iraq has marked the departure of remaining US forces from its bases with a four-day “Sovereignty Days” observance, underscoring the end of a long military presence tied to the fight against the Islamic State group. According to Al Jazeera, the withdrawal completes a phased process that had been outlined in a 2024 US-Iraq statement and formally closes the coalition’s wartime mission in Iraq.

The report says the exit affects more than personnel: it also includes military equipment and some support capabilities, with particular concern in Iraq’s Kurdish region around air defence, intelligence, logistics and drones. Iraqi officials say local forces have already taken over many responsibilities, including air surveillance and operating F-16 fighters, while Baghdad is still seeking additional air defence systems from foreign suppliers. In northern Iraq, Kurdish officials warned that the region remains vulnerable to missile and drone attacks.

Al Jazeera notes that the withdrawal also raises questions about the risk of an ISIL resurgence, though the group is far weaker than during its peak years. Iraqi and US officials describe the new phase as a transition to an Iraqi-led security role rather than a full break in security ties. Washington is expected to keep some military cooperation through training, liaison and assistance arrangements.

The report also says Iran-aligned militias view the withdrawal as a victory, but Baghdad has delayed a separate deadline for armed groups to surrender their weapons until June 2027.