Kathmandu— Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced Wednesday that the deadline of September 30 for ending the US-led international coalition’s military mission in Iraq and completing the withdrawal of its forces is firm, following a meeting with US Central Command Commander General Brad Cooper. The move would conclude nearly two decades of foreign military presence dating back to the 2003 invasion, and follows an agreement reached between Washington and Baghdad earlier this year to wind down operations against ISIS. Al-Zaidi stated that October 1 will mark a new era for Iraq, free from any foreign military presence, with all weapons coming under exclusive state control.

Withdrawal Agreement Reached

The Iraqi prime minister’s office released a statement confirming the September 30 deadline was agreed upon during discussions between al-Zaidi and General Cooper. This agreement builds on talks held in Washington, DC, in mid-July, signaling a coordinated effort to finalize the withdrawal process. The move aims to transition Iraq into a new phase of development and prosperity by consolidating state control over all weaponry within its borders.

Shifting US-Iraq Relationship

Both Iraqi and US officials emphasized that the end of the military mission will be followed by a shift towards enhanced economic and security cooperation. This future relationship is intended to be built on mutual respect for Iraq’s sovereignty and shared interests, marking a departure from the previous military-focused alliance. A US official confirmed to The Associated Press that the United States anticipates completing its pullout by September 30, though details regarding troop numbers and redeployment locations remain undisclosed.

Historical Context of Foreign Military Presence

The impending withdrawal brings an end to a long history of foreign military involvement in Iraq. US troops initially entered the country with the 2003 invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein. While combat forces departed in December 2011, they returned in 2014 at the Iraqi government’s request following the rise of ISIS and its territorial gains across Iraq and Syria. Coalition military operations formally concluded in 2021 after ISIS lost control of its claimed territory. US troops had largely withdrawn from bases throughout most of Iraq last year, maintaining a presence only in the semi-autonomous northern Kurdish region, which has recently faced attacks since February.

The withdrawal is expected to be completed by September 30th, paving the way for a new chapter in Iraqi statehood and a redefined relationship between Iraq and the United States.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.