US formally concludes mission in Iraq: Pentagon

According to a report by the Gulf Times, the United States has formally concluded its mission against jihadist forces in Iraq. This development follows the recent withdrawal of American troops from the Erbil airbase, located in the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq. The move marks a significant milestone in the evolving security relationship between Washington and Baghdad.

For over a decade, the US-led coalition has maintained a presence in Iraq to provide support, training, and air power in the fight against extremist groups. The transition to a new phase of bilateral security cooperation has been the subject of extensive negotiations between the two governments, aimed at shifting the focus from direct combat operations to a more traditional advisory and partnership-based role.

The withdrawal from Erbil is part of a broader strategic realignment of American forces in the Middle East. While the formal mission against jihadists has concluded, the Pentagon has indicated that the US will continue to maintain a presence in the region to support regional stability and assist Iraqi security forces as they take on greater responsibility for domestic defense. Further details regarding the specific timeline for the remaining transition phases are expected to be clarified in upcoming briefings from the Department of Defense.