Foreign occupation cannot bring lasting peace

October 1, 2026

The United States has completed its military withdrawal from Iraq on September 30, 2026, ending more than two decades of military involvement in the country. The departure raises an important question for Washington: can military occupation ever bring lasting peace, stability and democracy to another nation?

The 2003 invasion of Iraq removed Saddam Hussein but was followed by years of violence, political instability and human suffering. The US returned in 2014 to help Iraqi forces fight the Islamic State (IS), which had captured large parts of the country. Although the group lost its territorial control, Iraq continues to face security challenges.

The withdrawal is a reminder that military power alone cannot resolve the political, social and economic problems of another country. Foreign intervention can weaken existing institutions, deepen divisions and create conditions for prolonged conflict. The United States must reflect on the human and financial costs of its military campaigns and reconsider the long-term consequences of maintaining troops on foreign soil.

The American military should primarily serve the defence of its own country rather than remain engaged in prolonged overseas occupations. Nations must be allowed to determine their political futures without foreign military pressure. Security partnerships, diplomacy, trade and mutual respect can offer alternatives to military intervention.

The Iraqi people have endured decades of war, displacement and uncertainty. Their desire for sovereignty and control over their national affairs deserves recognition. However, the withdrawal also presents serious challenges, including the threat of renewed IS activity and tensions involving armed groups.

The resilience of the Iranian people, who have faced years of international pressure and regional tensions, also deserves recognition. Their determination to preserve their national identity and independence reflects the broader human desire for self-determination. The region needs dialogue and peaceful solutions rather than another cycle of confrontation.

The lesson from Iraq is that lasting peace requires strong national institutions, public trust and respect for sovereignty. Foreign armies may enter and leave, but the consequences of war remain with ordinary people for generations. The future of the Middle East depends on cooperation, independence and the ability of its nations to resolve their differences without prolonged foreign military intervention.