U.S. Withdrawal from Victoria and Ain al-Asad Bases: Suspicious Troop Redeployment in Iraq
Iraqi Analysts Warn Move Could Signal Destabilizing Actions Amid Persistent Distrust of Washington
Iraq, PUREWILAYAH.COM - According to the Arabic site of Tasnim News Agency, U.S. forces have withdrawn from the Ain al-Asad and Victoria bases (the latter located at Baghdad Airport) and relocated to Harir Base in Erbil.
Many observers believe this redeployment could be a prelude to potential actions aimed at undermining Iraq’s internal stability.
Political Negotiations and Agreement for Withdrawal
Tasnim quoted Iraqi expert Imad al-Musafir in Baghdad as saying that the issue of U.S. troop withdrawal has been under discussion since Prime Minister al-Sudani assumed office.
He noted that the prime minister’s cabinet engaged in lengthy negotiations with the Americans and formed a joint military committee to address the matter.
He noted that the Iraqi government and the White House reached an agreement on a timetable for U.S. forces to leave Ain al-Asad and Baghdad Airport for Harir Base.
However, al-Musafir stressed that the underlying factor remains a deep mistrust of the U.S., pointing out that Washington often exploits any opportunity to maintain its presence in the region’s tense environment.
Persistent Skepticism Toward U.S. Promises
The Iraqi analyst emphasized that the United States insists on maintaining a presence in the field, particularly given Israel’s threats against Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and other areas.
He warned against excessive optimism toward U.S. pledges, noting that Washington has repeatedly failed to fully honor its commitments to Iraq and other nations.
Sabah Zangeneh, Director of the Strategic Studies Center in Iraq, also told Tasnim that the international coalition has not concluded its mission, as its scope has extended beyond the original purpose.
Shift from Anti-Daesh Mission to Political Influence
Zangeneh explained that the U.S. entered Iraq under the pretext of defeating Daesh, but the mission evolved into three main objectives: permanent base presence, political backing for U.S. allies, and military advisory roles.
He noted that these forces, now presented as part of Iraq’s “legitimate” forces, provide advisory support to certain parties advancing U.S. goals in Iraq’s internal political processes.
Military Details of the Withdrawal Plan
Lieutenant General Abdul Karim Khalaf, a military affairs expert, stated that the coalition has finalized its withdrawal decision in coordination with Iraqi authorities.
Forces stationed at Ain al-Asad will pull out, as will those in the western sector of Baghdad International Airport, moving toward Harir. The withdrawal is scheduled for completion in September.
He added that the U.S. maintains a significant presence at Harir Base in Erbil. Around one hundred American military personnel will remain in Baghdad, limited to advisory, training, logistical support, and technical assessment roles for the Iraqi Armed Forces—without combat units. (PW)