Iraq should fight ISIS without U.S. troops

Defence of a state against external and internal threats, spanning intelligence services, military operations, counterterrorism and the classification of information. Covers the tension between secrecy and oversight, and the agencies whose work is largely conducted beyond public view.

A 12-year U.S. military mission in Iraq ended on September 30, 2026, when all forces and equipment departed, according to U.S. Central Command. President Donald Trump characterized the departure as a victory for both countries, while reporting noted concerns about Iraq and the region’s future.