The last US troops left Iraq on September 30, 2026, ending a 12-year mission against ISIS. Here is what happened and what comes next.

Why did the US leave now? Washington and Baghdad agreed in 2024 to wind down the coalition mission, with September 30, 2026 set as the final deadline. The last forces departed Erbil Air Base in the Kurdish region.

How long were US troops in Iraq? The US invaded Iraq in 2003, withdrew combat forces in 2011, and returned in 2014 after ISIS seized Mosul. About 2,500 troops stayed for training and counterterrorism after combat operations ended in 2021.

Is the war against ISIS over? Not entirely. The coalition’s headquarters has moved to Jordan, and US forces continue counter-ISIS operations in Syria. Iraq’s forces now lead the fight at home.

What changes? Iraq gains fuller control of its security, and the US shifts to a normal bilateral security relationship with training and intelligence support. Iran-backed militias have celebrated the exit as a victory, while Washington says Iraqi forces can now handle the threat alone.