US forces to leave Iraqi Kurdistan by September 30

BAGHDAD: The Iraqi government has announced that US forces will complete their withdrawal from Iraq’s Kurdistan region by September 30, marking another step in the planned transition of the American military mission in the country.

According to foreign media reports, Iraqi and US officials held discussions in the Kurdistan region regarding the withdrawal and the transfer of military responsibilities.

Under the plan, US military bases in Kurdistan will be handed over to Iraqi security forces following the departure of American personnel.

The Iraqi government said the movement of US military equipment and personnel out of the region is already underway. The withdrawal is expected to take place in coordination with Iraqi authorities to ensure an orderly transition.

The announcement comes as Baghdad and Washington continue implementing an agreement reached in 2024 on the gradual transition of the US-led military mission in Iraq.

The agreement envisaged a phased reduction of the international coalition’s military role while strengthening Iraq’s own security capabilities.

US forces have played a significant role in supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against Islamic State militants and in providing training, intelligence and logistical assistance.

The latest withdrawal from Kurdistan is therefore likely to attract attention as Iraq assumes greater responsibility for securing military facilities previously used by US forces.

The Iraqi government has not provided further details on the exact number of American troops or equipment involved in the latest phase of the withdrawal.