The full withdrawal of US and coalition forces from Iraq has ushered in a new era of national sovereignty, but it also poses significant challenges. The Iraqi government is now solely responsible for its security, with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasizing the readiness of the Iraqi armed forces. However, the move has prompted concerns among citizens and the Kurdistan Regional Government about possible security gaps that ISIS might exploit, particularly in regions where the insurgency remains active.
The withdrawal of US forces from Iraq, completing the mission of the international coalition, marks a significant turning point in the country's trajectory. Haya Al-Tamimi, a correspondent for Al-Qaeda News Channel in Baghdad, noted that the first day after the withdrawal conveyed important political and security messages, particularly regarding the Iraq i Prime Minister's outreach to neighboring countries.
The capital, Baghdad, celebrated the occasion with festive atmospheres, as Iraqi authorities hailed the event as a historic day. The Iraqi government has declared its confidence in the national security forces' ability to manage the security and military affairs independently, without the need for the coalition's presence. This withdrawal is a critical test for the Prime Minister, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to demonstrate the efficacy of the Iraqi security apparatus in preventing a security vacuum.
While the Iraqi forces are capable of maintaining order, there are concerns about potential vulnerabilities in certain provinces (like Ninawa, Kirkuk, and Diyala) that could be exploited by the Islamic State (ISIS). The Kurdistan Regional Government is also monitoring the situation with apprehension, worried about the federal government's ability to protect the region's airspace in the absence of the coalition's support.
Iraq US Withdrawal International Coalition Security ISIS Baghdad Kurdistan Prime Minister Al-Sudani
