President Donald Trump has stated that the United States no longer requires a military presence in Iraq, as the coalition mission nears its planned conclusion on September 30. According to Trump, Iraq is now capable of standing independently and Iran has been sufficiently weakened.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi agrees with this assessment, noting that armed groups operating outside state control will have “no justification” once the U.S.-led mission ends. He emphasized that Iraq’s security forces can protect the nation independently, stressing that maintaining weapons solely within the state’s control is a ‘decision, not an option.’
Trump mentioned that the U.S. will focus on investment and energy development in Iraq. Al-Zaidi confirmed this change, stating that although U.S. troops will exit Iraq by September 30, American companies will remain.
“We don’t think we need the military there anymore,” Trump said. “We’re there to help them, to protect them if necessary, but we don’t think that’s going to be needed.”
This marks a significant transition for Iraq, a country once synonymous with conflict against ISIS and internal violence. Over two decades post-U.S. invasion, Trump’s administration points to improved security conditions as justification for the shift from military to economic relations. This is demonstrated by planned U.S. investments in Iraq’s energy sector.
Iranian influence in Iraq, historically maintained through political parties and militias within the Popular Mobilization Forces, has been a concern for Washington. Efforts have been ongoing to bring these groups under full state control.
As part of a 2024 agreement, the U.S. committed to end the military mission in Iraq by September 2025. Although U.S. troops began withdrawing, a contingent remained for advisory roles and to support counter-ISIS efforts related to neighboring Syria.
Al-Zaidi, a political newcomer, assumed office amid attempts to resolve political deadlock. With Trump’s public endorsement, al-Zaidi emerged as a consensus candidate. During a recent Oval Office meeting, Trump praised al-Zaidi’s leadership and expressed confidence in his potential to influence the broader Middle East region.
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