American combat mission in Iraq over: Obama

Washington, Sep 1: In a live address from the White House, US President Barack Obama declared an end to the US combat mission in Iraq on Tuesday, Aug 31.

Obama said, "tonight, I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended and now its the time for the Iraqis themselves to take responsibility for their security."

"Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the US and Iraq, we have met our responsibility. Now, it is time to turn the page."

Fewer than 50,000 US troops remain in Iraq and will be responsible for training the Iraqi military and some counterterrorism operations. The US State Department will take over direction of the new mission called "New Dawn" from the military.

Nearly 100,000 troops have left Iraq since Obama took office in Jan 2009. The president has instead sharpened the military focus on Afghanistan.

OneIndia News