Iraqi PM Declares End To ISIS Threat, Pushing For US Troop Withdrawal

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani declared that the Islamic State (ISIS) no longer poses a significant threat to Iraq, on September 2, 2024.

These remarks were made during a meeting with Major General Kevin C. Leahy, commander of the Global Coalition against ISIS in Iraq, and US Ambassador Alina Romanowski. Sudani emphasized that the remnants of ISIS have been reduced to isolated groups, which are being actively pursued by Iraqi forces in remote regions of the country.

Transitioning the US-Led Coalition's Mission

The discussions also centred around the ongoing dialogue between Baghdad and Washington regarding the end of the US-led coalition's mission in Iraq. The coalition initially formed to combat ISIS, is now in the process of transitioning to a framework focused on bilateral relations with member states. Despite this shift, cooperation in areas such as training and intelligence sharing with Iraqi security forces is expected to continue.

Background of US Involvement

The United States has justified its military presence in Iraq under the premise of combating ISIS. However, the US and its regional allies have previously been accused of covertly supporting the group during its rise in 2014, when ISIS took control of significant parts of Iraq, including Mosul. Prime Minister Sudani's recent comments reinforce his earlier statements in June, where he credited Iraq's "civilizational victory" against ISIS to the unity and sacrifices of the Iraqi people.

Ongoing Regional Concerns

Sudani's declaration comes amid reports of a resurgence of ISIS activity in Syria, where the group has been responsible for numerous attacks, particularly in the central Syrian desert. The governments of Syria and Russia have accused the US of supporting ISIS in Syria to justify its military presence and destabilize the region. The situation remains complex, with US forces accused of occupying northeast Syria to exploit its oil resources.

Prime Minister al-Sudani's statements mark a significant moment in Iraq's ongoing efforts to maintain security and stability. While the threat of ISIS within Iraq has been greatly diminished, regional dynamics and the future role of the US-led coalition continue to be closely monitored.