Baghdad — As the September 30, 2026 deadline for the complete withdrawal of American occupation forces approaches, widespread questions are echoing throughout Iraq regarding Washington’s true intentions. While an agreement between Baghdad and the US mandates the end of the so-called “international coalition” mission, many suspect the imperialist agenda is merely shifting tactics to maintain a foothold in the country under a different guise.
In a clear move signalling the retreat of the occupiers, American forces have practically begun withdrawing their troops and military equipment from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This step marks a historic milestone achieved through the unwavering resolve of the Iraqi people, the decisions of the House of Representatives, and the continuous pressure of the popular will and the Axis of Resistance.
Iraqi lawmakers have strongly rejected Western narratives attempting to sow fear of a “security vacuum.” Member of Parliament Dhuha al-Bahadli stressed that Iraq’s military, security institutions, and national mobilisation forces have reached an advanced stage of combat readiness. “Iraq is now fully capable of taking over the security file, securing the borders, and repelling any external or internal threat without the need for any foreign umbrella or guardianship,” she declared.
Al-Bahadli slammed the propaganda suggesting a security void as “baseless pretexts for circumventing the national decision,” adding that ending the foreign military presence is a fundamental step in consolidating full sovereignty. She affirmed that Iraqi forces are the true shield of the nation, maintaining stability away from any foreign dictation.
Echoing these sentiments, MP Mokhtar al-Mousawi emphasised that purging Iraq of any foreign occupier presence will have a profoundly positive impact on national security. “All experiences have proven that this [US] presence has negative effects and interventions that are not in the interest of security and stability,” he noted.
Al-Mousawi highlighted that the withdrawal at the end of September is a crucial victory achieved by popular support and parliamentary resolve. He dismissed any claims that the departure of US forces would lead to adverse consequences or a security collapse.
“Iraq’s security forces have been leading the battle against terrorism for years through intelligence efforts and field operations. Therefore, attempts by some to cast doubt on their capabilities and disrupt the situation are baseless talk,” al-Mousawi explained, pointing to the immense capability of Iraqi fighters to confront terrorist remnants—often the very groups created and funded by the American-Zionist agenda.
As Iraq enters this new sovereign phase, security responsibility is being rightfully entrusted to its own national institutions, including the battle-hardened fighters who have defended the homeland. While the nation faces inherent challenges in areas such as air defence, intelligence, and counterterrorism, the coordination between Baghdad and Erbil, alongside the steadfast support of regional allies, will ensure that the defeat of imperialism is total and permanent.
Reference: ABNA24
Now the rest of Middle East countries need to do the same thing